Emeritus Professor Anetekhai writes Gov Sanwo-Olu, raises alarm over paltry pension for retired professors

By Success Damian

Emeritus Professor of Lagos State University (LASU), Anetekhai Martins Agenuma, former Professor of Fisheries and Aquaculture, has written an open letter to the Governor of the state, His Excellency, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, drawing his attention to the plight of retired professors in the state.

In the letter made available to the media on Sunday, July 27, 2025, Anetekhai disclosed that the most worrisome condition of the retired academics is the paltry pension which retired professors in the state are being paid in the state university.

He decried a situation where an Emeritus Professor and a retired academic staff member of over 40 years is paid N213,678.34 and equivalent of $150 per month.

He said, “I am writing to bring to your attention a pressing concern that affects the well-being and productivity of retired professors in Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo.

“As an Emeritus Professor and a retired academic staff member of over 40 years, I have witnessed firsthand the dedication and commitment of our professors to the pursuit of knowledge and the development of future generations.

“The issue at hand is the hostile pension scheme that has resulted in a paltry monthly take-home pay of N213,678.34 for Emeritus Professors like myself.

“This amount is equivalent to less than $150 per month, which is a stark reality that highlights the challenges faced by retired academics in Nigeria,” Anetekhai stated.

The erudite Professor disclosed that the Nigerian university system has produced some of the finest minds in the world and reasoned that such great minds deserved better treatment. “As you may be aware, the Nigerian university system has produced some of the finest minds in the world, and it is imperative that we prioritize the welfare of our retired professors who have dedicated their lives to the pursuit of knowledge and the development of our nation.”

He argued that the current pension is a far cry from what it should be and appealed for immediate action. “The current pension scheme is not only unfair but also unsustainable, and it may lead to a lack of dedication to service by those who are yet to retire.

“I humbly request that you use your good offices to advocate a review of the pension scheme at the national level.

“As a prominent leader, your voice can help bring attention to this critical issue and push for reforms that benefit retired academics across the country.

“Specifically, I urge you to Use your platform to raise awareness about the challenges faced by retired professors and the need for pension reform, Engage with relevant stakeholders, including the National Assembly and the Federal Ministry of Education, to push for a review of the pension scheme, and Support initiatives that prioritize the welfare of retired academics and ensure that they are treated with dignity and respect.

“I believe that this is not a personal appeal but a call to action that is born out of concern for the sustainability of quality within our system. I hope that you will take this matter seriously and use your influence to drive positive change,” Prof Anetekhai stated.