The Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD) has reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, accountability, and the welfare of pensioners under the Defined Benefits Scheme (DBS), assuring that ongoing reforms in pension administration continue to yield positive results.
The Executive Secretary of PTAD, Tolulope Odunaiya, made the statement during a one-day training workshop for pension correspondents and online editors in Abuja.
Odunaiya said the training was necessary to equip journalists with accurate and up-to-date information on PTAD’s mandate, operations, and future plans, strengthening responsible reporting on pension matters.
She noted that positive and factual reportage has played a pivotal role in shaping public perception of pension reforms.
“I wish to express our appreciation for the robust support and collaboration we have had with the media. It could not have been possible without the positive reportage the pension correspondents and online editors have given PTAD,” she said.
Odunaiya emphasised the importance of media engagement to PTAD’s operations, saying it prompted the Directorate to prioritise continuous capacity-building for journalists covering the pension sector.
She explained that PTAD has worked “assiduously” to change the long-standing negative narrative surrounding pension payments in Nigeria.
“Over the years, PTAD has worked assiduously to change the narrative of pension payment in Nigeria, especially under the Defined Benefits Scheme, and we are proud to see that the hard work has continued to yield positive results,” she stressed.
The workshop provided journalists with an in-depth overview of the PTAD Act, its operational departments, and how the Directorate executes its statutory responsibilities. Odunaiya said this knowledge is essential for accurate and context-rich reporting.
“It is very important, as reporters, to understand where we are coming from, where we are, where we are headed, and what exactly we do, so you can report accurately,” she added.
The Executive Secretary emphasised that pension management in Nigeria is a sensitive issue, and PTAD remains committed to ensuring the welfare of pensioners under the DBS. She called on journalists to continue partnering with the Directorate to dispel misinformation and promote accountability within the pension system.
“As our partners in progress, we rely on the media to work with us to ensure that this mandate is fulfilled,” she said, adding that PTAD aims to “foster the already-robust relationship with the media, correct misrepresentations, and share our next steps toward sustaining pensioner welfare.”