By John Umeh
After more than two decades of persistent advocacy and broken promises, former employees of the defunct Nigeria Airways can finally breathe a sigh of relief as the Federal Government has announced the commencement of long-awaited pension payments. This development comes 22 years after the airline was officially shut down in 2003, leaving thousands of workers without compensation or retirement benefits.
The Ministry of Finance, in collaboration with the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD), confirmed that funds have been released to begin disbursing outstanding entitlements owed to the former staff. According to official statements, the payments will cover verified pension arrears, severance benefits, and other agreed entitlements, following several rounds of verification exercises conducted over the years.
Nigeria Airways, once the country’s national carrier and a symbol of pride for decades, ceased operations due to mismanagement, financial insolvency, and mounting debts. Its abrupt closure left thousands of employees stranded and without support, prompting years of legal battles, protests, and public appeals to successive administrations for justice.
“For 22 years, we have lived in pain, many of us have died waiting. Today, this announcement is not just about money—it is about dignity,” said one retired engineer who worked with the airline for over 30 years. “The government has finally done what is right.”
Over the years, several attempts had been made to resolve the pension issue, with former presidents making verbal commitments that never fully materialized. The latest move by the current administration is being seen as a breakthrough and a moral victory for the affected retirees and their families.
PTAD has assured the public that the payment process will be transparent, timely, and strictly limited to verified beneficiaries. The directorate also urged retirees to be patient as staggered disbursements roll out across regions, adding that any unresolved cases will be addressed promptly.
The renewed commitment to settling Nigeria Airways’ pension liabilities is being viewed by economic analysts as part of the Federal Government’s broader efforts to reform the pension system, address historical injustices, and rebuild public trust in institutions.
While this long-overdue payout cannot undo the years of hardship endured by former Nigeria Airways staff, it does offer a long-denied measure of closure—and a moment of recognition for workers who once kept Nigeria’s skies soaring.
As payments begin, many are hopeful that this marks a turning point in the government’s approach to pension justice for public-sector workers across the country.
