Lagos Pensioners Threaten Protests Over Delayed Arrears and Pay Hikes

Retired workers under the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Contributory Pension Scheme (NUPCPS) in Lagos State have threatened to mount a mass protest unless their long‑overdue pension arrears and an approved pay increase are paid promptly.

The state chairman of the pensioners’ union, Comrade Michael Omisande, said during a recent gathering that many retirees have endured financial hardship for months because the Lagos State Pension Commission (LASPEC) has yet to complete the cost evaluation for the statutory pension increment and settle all outstanding back‑payments.

Omisande warned that if the commission does not conclude the assessment and begin disbursing the approved funds by the end of March 2026, retirees will have no choice but to take their grievances to the streets in a show of collective strength.

He highlighted the plight of former staff members from the Lagos State University of Education who retired between 2023 and 2026 but have not received their entitlements, and noted that some of these retirees have already passed away amid ongoing delays.

The union leader recalled that the Lagos State governor had previously pledged to act once the federal pension implementation template was provided — but expressed frustration that progress has been slow, leaving pensioners feeling ignored.

Pensioners have stressed that continued delays in paying both the approved incremental pension and their arrears is not only unfair but detrimental to their welfare, and have called on LASPEC and government authorities to act immediately to avert public protest.