Mr Michael Vembe, Chairman, Nigerian Union of Pensioners (NUP), Benue Chapter, says that Gov. Hyacinth Alia deserves the encouragement and support of all well-meaning citizens for the growth and wholesome development of the state.
Vembe, who stated this in an interview with the News of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Makurdi, said that the governor was on the right track in the governance of the state.
The chairman said that, unlike in the past, when citizens were ignored, Alia has focused on the welfare of the masses.
According to him, the governor is developing physical infrastructure by constructing roads, building schools, providing incentives to farmers and small and medium-scale businesses, and making life better for people.
“Compared to his predecessors, there is a 100 per cent difference. He deserves encouragement.
“The fact is, in the past, pensioners were barely paid. They would receive payments three times a year, and for the remaining nine months, nothing.
“But this governor changed that. He ensures that pensions are paid monthly and has also subsidised medical care for senior citizens.
“Even if a pensioner receives only ₦5,000, the fact that they are getting free healthcare makes a huge difference.
“That’s why we said we would buy a nomination form for him to encourage him and show appreciation,” Vembe added.
He stated that gone were the days when pensioners had to borrow money just to buy nomination forms for candidates they supported.
The chairman pointed out that Benue pensioners who now get their pay on the 24th of every month have the capacity to purchase the form for the governor.
The number one pensioner in the state emphasised that they’ were ready to pool resources to support Alia for prioritising their welfare.
