By Mariam Abeeb
The Executive Secretary of the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD), Tolulope Odunaiya, has reiterated the directorate’s commitment to safeguarding the welfare of pensioners under the Defined Benefits Scheme (DBS).
Odunaiya, made the commitment during a capacity building workshop for pension correspondents and online editors in Abuja.
The executive secretary, represented by the Director Corporate Services Department, Mr Kabiru Yusuf, said that the workshop was designed to keep journalists informed and updated about PTAD’s mandate.
According to him, it is also to inform the correspondents of the operations, and future plans, accurate reporting and essentials for building public trust in pension management.
“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.
“It is necessary for responsible and precise journalism in the pension sector,” she said.
Odunaiya said that pension management was a sensitive national issue and the media remains a vital partner in ensuring transparency and public accountability.
“As our partners in progress, we rely on the media to work with us to fulfil this mandate.
” It is our intention to foster our already robust relationship, correct misrepresentations, and inform you of next steps as we work to sustain pensioners’ welfare,” she said.
She commended the media for their robust support and collaboration over the years, pledging to strengthen collaboration with the media as part of efforts to deepen public understanding of pension administration.
Odunaiya said that PTAD’s progress in reforming pension payment systems would not have been possible without accurate and constructive reportage.
“The importance of the media to the operations of PTAD cannot be overemphasised.
“Over the years, we have worked assiduously to change the narrative of pension payment in Nigeria, especially under the DBS.
“We are proud that our efforts continue to yield positive results,” she said.
Odunaiya said that the training would enlighten reporters on the Act establishing PTAD, its mandate, operational departments, and processes.
Odunaiya said that the workshop would strengthen collaboration between PTAD and the media
