Tinubu approves fast-track of free healthcare, pension reforms for vulnerable retirees

By Kunle Sanni –

President Bola Tinubu has directed the immediate rollout of a free healthcare programme for low-income retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), describing the initiative as vital to social protection and ensuring dignity for Nigerians in retirement.

The President also ordered the prompt implementation of long-delayed pension increases and a Minimum Pension Guarantee, aimed at securing a financial safety net for the most vulnerable pensioners within the CPS framework.

These directives followed a detailed briefing from the Director-General of the National Pension Commission (PenCom), Ms. Omolola Oloworaran, at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

President Tinubu further instructed PenCom to urgently resolve the lingering issue of police pensions, stating that officers who dedicate their lives to national security must retire with dignity and peace of mind.

“The men and women of the police force who protect our country deserve more than gratitude — they deserve a secure and dignified retirement,” the President said.

Ms. Oloworaran also briefed the President on ongoing efforts to preserve the value of pension fund assets amid rising inflation and economic pressures. She outlined new reforms, including plans to introduce foreign currency contributions, allowing Nigerians in the diaspora to participate in the country’s pension system.

President Tinubu expressed strong support for the ongoing reforms, reaffirming his administration’s focus on inclusive economic growth and social protection for all citizens.

The PenCom DG highlighted a suite of transformative initiatives designed to improve retiree welfare and broaden the reach of the pension scheme, aligning with the President’s vision for national development and equitable prosperity.