The Birth of a Vision
The story of the Association of Cross River State Local Government Pensioners (ACRSLGP) is one of resilience, unity, and unwavering commitment to the welfare of retirees. Our journey began on April 3, 2012, when a group of passionate former local government workers, public health professionals, and primary school teachers came together with a shared vision: to create a support system for pensioners facing the challenges of retirement in Nigeria.
From Humble Beginnings
Starting with just over 1,000 members, we embarked on our mission to transform the retirement experience in Cross River State. Our founders recognized the unique struggles faced by pensioners – from delayed pension payments to health issues and social isolation. They understood that retirement shouldn’t mean the end of a fulfilling life, but rather the beginning of a new chapter filled with dignity and purpose.
Growing Stronger Together
As word spread about our initiatives and the positive impact we were making, our membership grew rapidly. By April 22, 2013, we had achieved a significant milestone: official incorporation with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) in Abuja. This recognition gave us the legal standing to more effectively advocate for our members’ rights and expand our programs.
Overcoming Challenges
Our journey hasn’t been without its challenges. We’ve faced numerous obstacles, from limited resources to bureaucratic hurdles. However, each challenge has only strengthened our resolve. We’ve learned to be innovative, developing programs like our Pension Loan Scheme to provide financial support when traditional institutions turned their backs on pensioners.
Expanding Our Reach
As our membership swelled to over 5,000, we expanded our programs to meet the diverse needs of our community. We introduced skill acquisition workshops, health education seminars, and social gatherings across the three Senatorial Districts of Cross River State. Our “Share Your Problems” forum became a lifeline for many, providing a platform for mutual support and problem-solving.
Milestones and Achievements
Over the years, we’ve celebrated numerous milestones:
- Successfully advocating for improved pension administration in Cross River State
- Launching our economic empowerment programs, helping hundreds of pensioners start small businesses
- Establishing regular free medical check-ups and treatments for our members
- Creating a vibrant community through our annual get-togethers and solidarity programs
Looking to the Future
Today, as we reflect on our journey, we’re filled with pride in how far we’ve come, but we’re even more excited about the future. Our plans for a Secretariat/Aged Home Complex represent the next big step in our evolution. This facility will not only serve as our headquarters but will also provide a home for those who need it most, complete with medical care and recreational facilities.
The Heart of Our Story: Our Members
At the core of our story are the thousands of pensioners whose lives have been touched by ACRSLGP. From the retired teacher who found a new purpose through our skill acquisition program to the former local government worker who received critical medical care through our health initiatives, these individual stories of transformation fuel our passion and drive our mission forward.