An Emeritus Professor, Anetekhai Martins Agenuma has called the attention of the Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu on the well-being and productivity of retired professors in Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo.
The retired professor, in an open letter addressed to the Governor pointed to the hostile pension scheme that has resulted in a paltry monthly take-home pay of N213, 678.34 for Emeritus Professors like himself.
According to him, this amount is equivalent to less than $150 per month, which is a stark reality that highlights the challenges faced by retired academics in Nigeria.
“As an Emeritus Professor and a retired academic staff member of over 40 years, I have witnessed firsthand the dedication and commitment of our professors to the pursuit of knowledge and the development of future generations.
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He continued: “As you may be aware, the Nigerian university system has produced some of the finest minds in the world, and it is imperative that we prioritize the welfare of our retired professors who have dedicated their lives to the pursuit of knowledge and the development of our nation.
“The current pension scheme is not only unfair but also unsustainable, and it may lead to a lack of dedication to service by those who are yet to retire,” he added.
He urged the Governor to use his good offices to advocate for a review of the pension scheme at the national level. “As a prominent leader, your voice can help bring attention to this critical issue and push for reforms that benefit retired academics across the country.
“Specifically, I urge you to use your platform to raise awareness about the challenges faced by retired professors and the need for pension reform.
“Also to engage with relevant stakeholders, including the National Assembly and the Federal Ministry of Education, to push for a review of the pension scheme.
“Support initiatives that prioritize the welfare of retired academics and ensure that they are treated with dignity and respect and I believe that this is not a personal appeal but a call to action that is born out of concern for the sustainability of quality within our system. I hope that you will take this matter seriously and use your influence to drive positive change,” he stated.
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