Former pilot John Okezie has raised concerns over the delayed release of severance and pension benefits owed to ex-employees of the defunct Nigeria Airways. Despite an approval in mid-2025 from President Bola Tinubu for a payment of N36 billion to settle outstanding benefits, many former employees have been left in a state of hardship and uncertainty, with little progress made on disbursing the funds. Now aging and struggling, these former workers, who once proudly represented Nigeria, are facing dire financial situations without the necessary support from the government.

In his appeal, Okezie, who has suffered a partial stroke, highlights the struggles of his fellow retirees, many of whom have been neglected since the airline's liquidation over two decades ago. With age taking a toll and health issues rising, the ex-workers, some of whom are now considered senior citizens, claim that their plight has only worsened due to the government's inaction. The delay in processing these benefits has left them in a state of neglect, as they depend on these funds for their livelihood and medical needs.

This situation not only points to systemic issues within the Nigerian government's handling of pension and severance benefits but also raises questions about accountability and support for vulnerable populations in the country. The repeated failures to deliver on promises of financial aid further fuel frustrations among these former employees, exemplifying the larger issue of social justice and the need for government intervention to protect its citizens, especially those who dedicated their lives to serving the nation through their careers in Nigeria Airways.