The National Pension Commission has begun a free healthcare programme targeted at low income retirees under Nigeria’s Contributory Pension Scheme. The initiative, known as PenCare, is expected to provide medical support for thousands of pensioners struggling with rising healthcare costs across the country.
According to PenCom, the pilot phase of the programme has opened registration for 30,000 eligible retirees nationwide. The commission explained that the initiative is specifically designed for pensioners aged 60 years and above who receive monthly pensions of not more than N70,000 through their Pension Fund Administrators.In a statement announcing the rollout, the commission said, “The National Pension Commission invites retirees under the CPS to enrol in the free healthcare initiative, PenCare.”
It also stated, “If you are at least 60 years old and receive a monthly pension of not more than N70,000 from a Pension Fund Administrator, you qualify for this pilot phase.
”PenCom added that the registration process would operate on a first come, first served basis. Eligible retirees have been advised to complete their enrolment through the commission’s official website or through the websites of their Pension Fund Administrators. The healthcare scheme is part of broader efforts by the pension regulator to improve the welfare of retirees, especially those facing financial hardship after leaving active service. Many pensioners in Nigeria spend a large portion of their monthly income on medical treatment, making access to healthcare increasingly difficult.
PenCom described PenCare as “a corporate social responsibility initiative aimed at reducing retirees’ medical expenses and improving their well-being.” The commission further noted that the programme was created to help protect the dignity of pensioners by ensuring they have access to affordable healthcare support. The initiative also aligns with earlier directives by President Bola Tinubu, who ordered the quick implementation of free healthcare access for vulnerable retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme.
The President had described the programme as an important social protection measure for elderly Nigerians. Reports indicate that PenCare is being funded through collaboration between PenCom and licensed pension operators. The programme is expected to reduce the burden of healthcare expenses on retirees while improving their quality of life. The introduction of the healthcare scheme comes at a time when many retirees continue to battle inflation, rising living costs, and limited access to medical insurance after retirement. Industry observers believe the programme could provide relief for thousands of pensioners who depend solely on modest monthly pension payments for survival.
