The National Pension Commission (PenCom) has urged state governments to fully implement the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), stressing that the success of pension reforms depends on adoption at the sub-national level.
Ms. Omolola Oloworaran, Director-General of PenCom, made the call on Wednesday in Benin during the Second Run of the 2025 Consultative Forum for States and the FCT. Represented by Mr. Samuel Uwandu, Commissioner for Inspectorate, she noted that while the CPS has transformed retirement security in Nigeria, gaps in state-level implementation continue to undermine the financial dignity of millions of workers.
Oloworaran said only 17 of the 36 states have fully implemented the scheme, 12 have yet to start, and seven are at various stages of establishing pension bureaus.
Highlighting reforms undertaken in her first year, she mentioned the timely payment of Accrued Pension Rights, the launch of Pension Boost 1.0, the re-introduction of gratuity payments for federal civil servants, and a new Pension Contribution Remittance System designed to reduce errors and delays. She also noted the approval of a N758 billion bond to settle legacy pension liabilities and the launch of Pension Revolution 2.0 to expand coverage to the informal sector.
While commending compliant states, Oloworaran urged others to engage actively, stressing that pension reform is a national imperative.
Opening the forum, Gov. Monday Okpebholo, represented by Edo State Secretary Musa Ikhilor, lauded PenCom for hosting the event, describing it as an opportunity for states to harmonise pension implementation. He emphasised that consistent reforms and administrative discipline are essential to guarantee dignity and a secure retirement for all Nigerians.
