Retirees of the Nigerian Ports Authority (NPA) have threatened to shut down seaports nationwide over more than 16 years of unpaid pension entitlements.
Gatekeepers News reports that under the umbrella of the Nigerian Ports Authority Pensioners Welfare Association, the retirees issued a statement on Sunday warning that a nationwide protest would begin within seven days if their demands are not addressed.
The association’s president, Charles Ayo Binitie, said the planned action could include disrupting port operations across the country.
Binitie explained that the protest stems from the failure of NPA management to implement the constitutionally mandated five-year pension increment, which he said has not been applied since 2008.
He lamented that many retirees are facing severe financial hardship, struggling to meet basic needs and afford healthcare.
“It is sad and regrettable to say the least, that amid the present high inflation rate and economic downturn in Nigeria, only a few NPA retirees receive up to N100,000, while more than 50 per cent of them earn between N50,000 to as low as N30,000 monthly,” he said.
He further criticised the disparity between the NPA and other top government agencies, noting that despite being a first-grade parastatal like the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, its retirees receive what he described as inadequate pensions.
Citing Section 173(3) of the constitution, Binitie stated that pensioners are entitled to periodic increases every five years and whenever there is a salary adjustment for serving workers.
“The above law states that all pensioners are entitled to pay rise every five years and whenever there is an increase for those in service; however, the management just adds whatever amount it likes, which mostly hovers between 3–11.5 per cent,” he said.
According to him, repeated efforts by the association to resolve the issue have yielded no results. He disclosed that letters had been sent to the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission and the presidency through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, but no action has been taken.
Binitie also dismissed claims of division within the association, stating that previous disputes had been resolved through court rulings.
“The NPA is yet to furnish the Wages Commission with its documents for over 15 years now, so that the necessary upward review can be made,” he said.
He referenced a judgment by the Lagos High Court Ikeja, which directed the association’s Board of Trustees to conduct an Annual General Meeting and elections—leading to his emergence as president.
He added that a separate five-year legal battle over alleged impersonation was resolved in his favour, with a ruling by an Apapa Magistrate Court in September 2025 affirming his position as the legitimate leader of the association.
Binitie stressed that the union now speaks with one voice, warning that the condition of pensioners has become unbearable.
He called on the presidency and relevant authorities to compel the NPA to settle outstanding benefits, including pension increments tied to the 2024 minimum wage.
