In a bid to streamline the resolution of pension-related complaints, the Public Complaints Commission has pledged its support to the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate in sensitising pensioners under the Defined Benefit Scheme.

This development emerged during a courtesy visit by the Executive Secretary of PTAD, Tolulope Odunaiya, to the Chief Commissioner of the PCC, Bashir Abubakar, at the Commission’s head office in Abuja.

During the visit, the PTAD Executive Secretary emphasised the importance of the PCC’s collaboration, highlighting the Commission’s instrumental role in “bridging the gap between PTAD and its pensioners”.

Odunaiya noted that the PCC’s support over the years has been crucial in building trust, improving communication, and reaching pensioners who require PTAD’s assistance the most.

Odunaiya also acknowledged the PCC’s function as the nation’s Ombudsman, which involves receiving complaints from pensioners and next of kin of deceased pensioners and intervening where necessary. She stated that this has significantly supported PTAD’s efforts to connect more effectively with pensioners.

While providing an update on complaints forwarded by the PCC, the PTAD boss assured the Commission of PTAD’s “unwavering commitment to enhancing the welfare of pensioners”.

However, she pointed out that the resolution of certain complaints faces delays due to the submission of incomplete documents by pensioners or their next of kin, which are essential for thorough and accurate investigations.

To address this challenge, Odunaiya made a direct appeal for the PCC’s assistance in educating pensioners and NOKs on “the importance of submitting complete and verifiable information”.

Responding to the request, the Chief Commissioner of the PCC acknowledged the prompt attention that PTAD gives to complaints originating from the Commission.

He expressed gratitude for the PCC’s willingness to support PTAD in this crucial enlightenment project. Furthermore, Abubakar commended the Executive Secretary of PTAD for her “proactive approach to tackling issues affecting the pensioners”.

This collaborative effort between PTAD and the PCC signifies a strengthened commitment to ensuring that pensioners under the Defined Benefit Scheme receive timely and efficient resolution of their complaints, particularly by addressing the issue of incomplete documentation, which often hinders the process.

The Defined Benefit Scheme was before the enactment of the Pension Reform Act 2004, which established a Contributory Pension Scheme for all employees in Nigeria. It was largely unfunded and non-contributory and was also referred to as the Pay-As-You-Go Scheme.

Employers paid retirees gratuity and pension, but the scheme was largely characterised by a deficit in funding, there was no regulator, and it was managed differently by various employers.