The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Mr Joe Ajaero, has welcomed the Federal Government’s approval of an enhanced gratuity for retiring federal civil servants.
Ajaero gave the commendation in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Tuesday in Abuja. It would be recalled that the Federal Government recently approved a new exit benefit scheme for federal civil servants.
Under the scheme, retiring civil servants will receive gratuity equivalent to 100 per cent of their total annual emolument. According to him, gratuity is different from a pension because it is a form of appreciation to workers who have served their employers diligently over the years.
“It recognises the dedication and loyalty of civil servants throughout their careers. “The contributory pension scheme alone may not adequately support retirees immediately after leaving service, so gratuity provides immediate financial support to start something meaningful,” he added.
Ajaero said this also allows retirees to manage their affairs while waiting for their pensions.