BY NKECHI NAECHE- ESEZOBOR –Governor Mai Mala Buni of Yobe State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to implement the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) in Yobe State.
He disclosed this during a meeting with the Director General of the National Pension Commission (PenCom), Ms. Omolola Oloworaran in Abuja.
The meeting discussed the adoption and implementation of the CPS in Yobe State. The engagement aimed to address critical steps required for the transition from the Defined Benefits Scheme (DBS), which is currently in practice in Yobe State to the more sustainable CPS to chart a clear path for the State’s pension reform efforts.
Speaking during the meeting, Gov. Buni reiterated his administration’s dedication to the welfare and financial security of retirees in the State.
He emphasised the importance of the CPS as a part of ongoing efforts to ensure a stable and sustainable pension system for state employees.
He also noted that the adoption of the CPS would not only provide long-term benefits but also address issues related to pension arrears and past service liabilities.
He further emphasised the need for sensitization programmes to ensure that all stakeholders understand the scheme’s benefits and operational framework.On the PenCom’s side,
Ms. Oloworaran briefed the Governor on the CPS and its long-term benefits for State employees. Discussions centred on the importance of passing the CPS Bill, ensuring timely remittances, and addressing past service liabilities through actuarial valuation.A key outcome of the meeting was the Governor’s assurance of his administration’s readiness to implement the CPS by passing a robust pension law and setting up the necessary administrative structures.
Ms. Oloworaran commended Governor Buni for his forward-thinking approach, particularly his initiative to clear pension arrears owed to retirees.
She pledged continuous technical support from PenCom to facilitate the smooth adoption of the CPS in Yobe State.
Governor Buni also reaffirmed his commitment to pre-retirement training programmes aimed at equipping civil servants with skills for post-retirement opportunities.
