‘12 states yet to begin’ — PenCom DG asks governors to implement CPS

The National Pension Commission (PenCom) has asked state governments to fully implement the contributory pension scheme (CPS).

Omolola Oloworaran, the director-general (DG) of PenCom, spoke on Wednesday in Benin at the second run of the 2025 consultative forum for states and the FCT.Oloworaran said the success of Nigeria’s pension reforms depends on adoption at the subnational level.The director-general, represented by Samuel Uwandu, commissioner for inspectorate, said the CPS had improved retirement security in Nigeria.

However, she said uneven implementation by states continues to threaten financial dignity for millions of workers.

“Only 17 of 36 states have fully implemented the scheme, 12 are yet to start, and seven are at various stages of establishing pension bureaus,” Oloworaran said.Highlighting reforms introduced in her first year in office, she listed the timely payment of accrued pension rights and the launch of pension boost 1.0.The DG also noted the reintroduction of gratuity payments for federal civil servants.

Additionally, Oloworaran also mentioned the introduction of a new pension contribution remittance system, designed to reduce errors and delays in pension remittances, as well as the approval of a N758 billion bond to clear legacy pension liabilities.

She added that PenCom has rolled out pension revolution 2.0 to expand coverage to workers in the informal sector.

While commending states that have complied with the CPS, she encouraged others to intensify their engagement, stressing that pension reform is “a national imperative”.

Declaring the forum open, Monday Okpebholo, Edo governor, praised the pension agency for choosing to host the event in the state.

The governor, represented by Musa Ikhilor, Edo secretary to the state government, described the event as an opportunity for states to harmonise pension implementation.

Okpebholo underscored the importance of guaranteeing the dignity for workers and retirees, stating that consistent reforms and administrative discipline are essential for a secure and comfortable retirement for all Nigerians.

‘12 states yet to begin’ — PenCom DG asks governors to implement CPS | TheCable