The Nigeria Union of Pensioners (NUP), Akwa Ibom State Council, will on October 30, 2026, publicly present an execellence Award and endorse Governor Umo Eno for a second term, with 28,000 pensioners expected to participate In the planned ceremony.
The NUP in a press statement endorsed by Pastor Sylvester O Nkodo ,State chairman and Obong Cosmos M. Essien State secretary and made available to journalists in Uyo on Thursday said the governor Eno’s administration met pensioners on pensions as low as N1000, N2000, N3000 respectively and immediately gave N20,000 as pension base in lieu of N30,000 minimum wage as at then.
They highlighted that When federal government. came up with N70,000 minimum wage ,the state government led by pastor Umo Eno added N27,000 to pensioners which brings it to a total of N47,000 for a person earlier earning as low as N1,000 as pension.
“That is N46,000 additional, something no administration has done since creation of Akwa Ibom State in 1987”.
They further averred that”Out of inherited backlog of N111 billion gratuity /pensions arrears , the governor has so far released 100billion with a firm promise to clear the balance of the debt before the end of his first term in office.
The Pensioners said they owe lots of gratitude to the governor for the free healthcare services, regular payment of monthly pension and building of senior citizens home for elderly citizen’s relaxation and enjoyment after years of toiling for the state.
They maintained that the governor’s policies have made life more meaningful to the retired citizens which prompted thier collective decision to endorse him for second term to continue his good works for the state.
“The timely settlement of pension , gratuity and other obligations have helped households access to healthcare and the ability of senior citizens to meet everyday expenses. When retirees receive outstanding entitlements, the funds help meet family medical expenses, support dependants, settle accumulated obligations and sustain small household businesses”. They added.
They said planned endorsement will also include the presentation of an Award of Excellence to Governor Eno for meritorious service and also for the Union to publicly acknowledge what the good leadership of Pastor Umo Eno has done to improve their welfare and well-being.
New Telegraph gathered that the event is expected to bring together pensioners from across Akwa Ibom State to Ibom hall to say Thank You to the governor with a charge to continue beyond 2027.
