Professor laments: N213,000 monthly pension not sustainable

A retired emeritus professor from Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo, Professor Martins Anetekhai, has raised the alarm over the meagre monthly pension paid to retired academics in Nigeria, describing it as grossly inadequate in today’s harsh economic climate.

In an open letter addressed to Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Anetekhai disclosed that emeritus professors receive just ₦213,678.34 monthly, an amount he said is equivalent to less than $150 and cannot sustain basic living expenses.

“The current pension is not only unfair but also unsustainable,” Anetekhai stated.

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“It is a stark reality that highlights the difficult conditions retired academics face, especially amid the prevailing economic challenges.”

Anetekhai, a former Professor of Fisheries and Aquaculture who served in academia for over 40 years, urged Governor Sanwo-Olu to use his influence to advocate for an upward review of the pension scheme at the national level.

He noted that while Governor Sanwo-Olu may not be aware of the plight of retired university professors, the Nigerian university system has produced some of the world’s brightest minds, and their welfare should not be neglected after years of dedicated service.

He warned that the neglect of retired scholars could discourage current and future academics, thereby affecting the quality of education and intellectual development in the country.

“I urge you to engage relevant stakeholders, including the National Assembly and the Federal Ministry of Education, to champion pension reforms that uphold the dignity and well-being of retired academics,” he wrote.

Emphasizing that his plea should not be seen as personal, Anetekhai described his appeal as a broader call to action to ensure sustained quality in the Nigerian university system.

He insisted that the welfare of both serving and retired academics must be prioritized if Nigeria is to continue producing future leaders and innovators.