Bayelsa pensioners recount verification experience

Bayelsa-based pensioners have commended the federal government for a successful verification exercise held in the state.

The exercise, organised by the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD) held in Yengoa and monitored by NAN, was meant to identify genuine pensioners and those who had problems getting their monthly pensions.

A retired Chief Nursing Officer, Mr Jonathan Ikputu, said the conduct was so far smooth and called for the proper use of the finding.

“It is good that this kind of programme is happening to rectify issues and challenges in the federal pension board. Well, with what I have seen so far, I must say, that the exercise is good,” he said.

Mr Japheth Taribio, a pensioner, who commended PTAD, said that the exercise was comparatively better than previous ones.

Taribio, who had also been captured, said the programme was on the right track, adding that his face, finger print and documents were also documented.

“I heard that there is a medical team to cover the programme, I am happy about that because that shows that the government is prepared for the verification,” he said.

Mrs Cynthia FredBoufini, the Deputy Director, Bayelsa State Emergency Medical Services, said they were prepared to provide medical service cover for the programme, pointing out that there were medications whenever the need arose.

“For the pensioners, we advise them not to stress themselves; those on medication should ensure that they maintain the intake of their drugs for the betterment of their health,” Boufini said.