The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on the Federal Government to ensure fairness in the implementation of gratuity payments for all retirees affected in the past.

It stated that workers who were previously denied gratuity should also receive their entitlements.

NLC President Joe Ajaero said this while he welcomed the Federal Government’s approval of an enhanced gratuity for retiring federal civil servants, where under the scheme, retiring civil servants will receive gratuity equivalent to 100 per cent of their total yearly emolument.

The scheme takes effect from Jan. 1, 2026, and applies to workers who have served for at least 10 years.

He said that if gratuity was stopped in the past without any law abolishing it, those who were not paid should have their entitlements settled.

“The government must ensure fairness for all retirees affected in the past,” he said.

Ajaero said gratuity was important because it helped retirees start new ventures before relying on their pensions.

According to him, gratuity is different from pension because it is a form of appreciation to workers who have served their employers diligently over the years, allowing retirees to manage their affairs while waiting for their pensions.

“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 said.

The NLC boss said it also provides security and dignity immediately after leaving service.

He said gratuity was separate from pension and should not be treated as part of pension benefits.

“Both should operate independently to ensure retirees are fully supported,” he said.
Ajaero also called on organisations in the private sector to adopt similar gratuity arrangements for their workers.

“It would encourage a culture of gratitude and fairness across all sectors,” he added.