Only 17 states compliant as DG says uneven implementation threatens financial dignity of Nigerian workers
The National Pension Commission (PenCom) has called on state governments to fully implement the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), warning that partial or non-compliance continues to endanger the financial security of retirees across the country.
Director-General Omolola Oloworaran made the appeal on Wednesday in Benin City during the second run of the 2025 consultative forum for states and the FCT. She was represented by Samuel Uwandu, PenCom’s Commissioner for Inspectorate.
Oloworaran said the long-term success of Nigeria’s pension reforms depends heavily on adoption at the subnational level. While the CPS has strengthened retirement security nationwide, she noted that inconsistent implementation among states remains a major challenge.
“Only 17 of the 36 states have fully implemented the scheme, 12 are yet to start, and seven are at various stages of establishing pension bureaus,” she said.
The DG highlighted key reforms introduced in her first year in office, including the timely payment of accrued pension rights and the launch of Pension Boost 1.0. She also noted the reinstatement of gratuity payments for federal civil servants.
According to her, PenCom has introduced a new pension contribution remittance system to eliminate errors and delays in remittances, alongside the approval of a N758 billion bond aimed at clearing outstanding legacy pension liabilities. She added that the commission has launched Pension Revolution 2.0 to expand coverage to informal sector workers.
While commending states already compliant with the CPS, Oloworaran urged others to accelerate implementation, describing pension reform as “a national imperative”.
Declaring the forum open, Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo, represented by Musa Ikhilor, Secretary to the State Government, said hosting the event in Edo reflects the state’s commitment to effective pension administration. He described the forum as a platform for states to harmonise their approaches to pension compliance.
Okpebholo stressed that ensuring the dignity of workers and retirees must remain a priority, adding that sustained reforms and administrative discipline are crucial for guaranteeing Nigerians a secure and comfortable retirement.
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