Tayo Busayo, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - In a major shakeup at the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD), President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has dismissed Dr. Chioma Ejikeme from her role as Executive Secretary, barely 13 months into her reappointment. Dr. Ejikeme has been replaced by Miss Tolulope Abiodun Odunaiya, who officially assumed office on Monday, November 18, 2024.
The announcement was made via a statement issued by PTAD spokesman, Olugbenga Ajayi, confirming Miss Odunaiya's appointment as the substantive Executive Secretary. However, the statement provided no explanation for Dr. Ejikeme's removal. Her second term, which began on October 10, 2023, has now been cut short.
“We are delighted to inform our publics, especially PTAD pensioners and other stakeholders, of the appointment of Miss Tolulope Abiodun Odunaiya by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as the substantive Executive Secretary of PTAD,” Ajayi said.
Upon her arrival at PTAD headquarters in Abuja, Miss Odunaiya was warmly received by the management and staff. In her inaugural address, she commended the contributions of her predecessors and pledged to build on the agency's legacy.
“It is with a deep sense of responsibility and purpose that I address you as the new Executive Secretary of this Directorate,” she stated. “I want to begin by acknowledging the remarkable work of my predecessors and the dedication of every individual who has contributed to bringing us to this point.”
Miss Odunaiya outlined a vision for PTAD centered on collaboration, accountability, and compassion. She called on staff to unite under a shared mission to enhance the lives of pensioners, whom she described as the backbone of Nigeria’s history and development.
“My vision is for a directorate where every individual feels recognized, empowered, and motivated to make meaningful contributions. Our shared purpose is improving the lives of our pensioners, who have selflessly served this nation, often in challenging circumstances,” she said.
The new PTAD head emphasized her commitment to aligning the agency’s goals with President Tinubu's "Renewed Hope Agenda," aimed at fostering a prosperous and inclusive Nigeria.
“By prioritizing efficiency, accountability, and compassion, we will contribute to a nation where every citizen feels valued and supported—especially those who dedicated their lives to public service,” she added.
Miss Odunaiya also pledged to ensure that pensioners receive the respect, care, and timely entitlements they deserve, reaffirming their value to the nation and making their retirement years fulfilling.
Following her address, Miss Odunaiya embarked on a tour of PTAD’s departments and units to gain firsthand insights into the agency’s administrative processes and workflows. The move signifies her readiness to hit the ground running and address any operational challenges at the directorate.
Her appointment comes at a critical time for PTAD, as the agency continues to manage the complex task of ensuring timely pension payments to retirees across the country. With her emphasis on collaboration and service excellence, Miss Odunaiya's leadership is expected to chart a new course for the agency.
