Tambuwal pledges pension reform

SPEAKER of the House of Representatives, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal, yesterday in Sokoto assured that the National Assembly was committed to removing all impediments hampering the smooth operation of the pensions scheme.The Speaker disclosed this at the opening of a four-day sensitisation capacity building workshop on the operation of the Nigerian pensions industry for members of the House of Representatives Committee on Pensions.The workshop is a deliberate effort by the National Pension Commission to build the capacity of legislators on pensions matters for effective legislation and oversight.The Speaker, who was represented by Alhaji Muazu Lawal, observed that after serving the nation diligently, the least the senior citizens expected from Nigeria by way of appreciation was prompt and regular payment of their entitlements.Tambuwal, therefore, assured that the National Assembly was committed to removing all obstacles militating against the prompt and regular payment.Also speaking, Director General of the National Pensions Commission, Alhaji Mohammad Kabir Ahmed, said the workshop was designed to sensitise the legislators on implementation of the Pensions Reform Act of 2004 and the activities of the commission.'Indeed, this forum would provide the opportunity for interaction and exchange of ideas on the implementation of the Act', he stated.The chairman, who was represented by the Commissioner for Administration in the commission, Alhaji Manzuma Mamman, said the primary objective of the workshop was to sensitise the National Assembly members on the success of implementing the new pensions scheme in view of their crucial role of legislations and oversight on pensions matters.Specifically, he said the workshop would address issues such as structure and functions of the commission, overview of the contributory pensions scheme and update on implementation of the scheme, challenges of investment of pensions funds and remittance of pensions contribution of Federal Government employees.He expressed the determination of the commission to resolutely discharge its mandate in the best interest of Nigeria and Nigerians.
Click here to read full news..