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Understanding How Monthly Pensions Are Paid To Retirees Under Contributory Pension Scheme In Nigeria

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The Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) was introduced in Nigeria as part of the Pension Reform Act of 2004 to ensure sustainable and transparent pension administration. For retirees under the CPS, understanding how monthly pensions are paid, how pensions are calculated, and how enhancements can be made over time is crucial. Below is a detailed breakdown of these processes.
How Monthly Pensions Are Paid
Retirees under the CPS have two primary options for receiving their monthly pensions: Programmed Withdrawal and Annuity. Programmed Withdrawal is managed by Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) and involves structured monthly payments drawn from the retiree’s Retirement Savings Account (RSA). Annuity is a life insurance product purchased from an insurance company, ensuring steady monthly payments for life. The disbursement process depends on the type of benefit being accessed. For example, Programmed Withdrawal involves monthly payments structured over the retiree’s expected lifespan. The 25% Loss of Job benefit allows employees who lose their jobs and remain unemployed for at least four months to access 25% of their RSA balance. The 25% Equity Mortgage benefit allows a portion of the RSA to be used as equity contribution for a mortgage, subject to specific conditions. For Death Benefits, the RSA balance is paid to the designated beneficiaries. All disbursements start with the customer completing the necessary documentation for the benefit type, obtaining approval from PenCom, and then receiving payment. The National Pension Commission (PenCom) has oversight over all pension disbursements to ensure compliance, transparency, and accuracy.
How Pensions Are Calculated
The calculation of monthly pensions depends on several factors. First, the balance in the RSA is a key determinant, which includes contributions made by both the employee and employer, plus accrued investment returns, forming the total RSA balance at retirement. Second, life expectancy assumptions are made, and PenCom periodically determines the average life expectancy used in calculating the programmed withdrawal. Third, retirees can withdraw up to 25% of their RSA balance as a lump sum, provided the remaining balance can fund a reasonable monthly pension. The monthly pension under Programmed Withdrawal is calculated using the formula: Monthly Pension = RSA Balance / Number of Expected Monthly Payments (Life Expectancy in Months). For example, if a retiree has an RSA balance of ₦10 million and a life expectancy of 20 years (240 months), the monthly pension will be approximately ₦41,667 at the start of the programmed withdrawal. For retirees choosing annuities, the insurance company determines the monthly pension based on the purchase price, interest rates, and life expectancy.
Conditions for the Calculations
Pensions are calculated only when the individual has reached the statutory retirement age of 60 years or has completed 35 years of service. Individuals who retire before the statutory age may access their RSA balance but must meet specific conditions, such as being out of employment for at least four months. In the event of the retiree’s death, the remaining RSA balance is paid to the designated beneficiaries.
Impact of the New National Minimum Wage on Pensions
In line with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s approval of the new National Minimum Wage Act, which increased the wage from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000, PenCom has updated its regulations. If a retiree’s monthly or quarterly pension is less than ₦23,333.33 (one-third of the current minimum wage), they are allowed to withdraw their RSA balance en bloc or continue receiving their current pensions pending the commencement of the Minimum Pension GuarantePension Fund Administrators (PFAs) must now use ₦70,000 as the basis for processing retirement benefits under the relevant provisions. This adjustment reflects the commitment to ensuring retirees receive adequate support to meet basic living standards.
Understanding Basic Lump-Sum Withdrawals
Retirees can withdraw a portion of their RSA balance as a lump sum, subject to PenCom’s regulations. The lump-sum amount is determined such that the remaining RSA balance can provide a monthly pension of at least 50% of the retiree’s last monthly basic salary. This provides immediate liquidity for retirees to address pressing financial needs, such as settling outstanding debts or making investments. However, taking a larger lump sum reduces the RSA balance available for monthly pensions.

Movement in Fund Unit Prices and Associated Fees
The fund’s unit price fluctuates based on market conditions and the performance of the underlying investments during the period under consideration. The returns for the fund are calculated after deducting audit fees and management fees. Management fees comprise fees charged by the PFA, Pension Fund Custodian (PFC), and PenCom. These fees vary depending on the specific fund and are calculated either on the Net Asset Value (NAV) or as income-based (derived from income generated by the fund during the period), as is the case with Fund IV.
Enhancing Monthly Pensions Over Time
To ensure that retirees receive improved monthly pensions, several measures can be implemented within the CPS. First, PFAs should adopt robust asset allocation strategies to maximize returns on pension funds, particularly by diversifying investments into infrastructure, real estate, and other high-yield sectors. Second, encouraging voluntary contributions during active employment can significantly boost the RSA balance at retirement. Third, employers can enhance an employee’s pension beyond the 10% statutory requirement. In addition, lowering fees and charges associated with RSA management will leave more funds available for disbursement to retirees. Fourth, introducing a mechanism to adjust pensions in line with inflation can maintain retirees’ purchasing power. Fifth, educating employees about the benefits of making additional voluntary contributions and starting early savings is crucial. Finally, offering incentives for employees who delay retirement allows them to accumulate more savings and reduce the strain on their RSA.
The CPS provides a structured framework for ensuring retirees’ financial security. Understanding how monthly pensions are paid, calculated, and enhanced can help individuals plan effectively for retirement. By implementing measures to boost RSA balances, optimize investment returns, and reduce fees, the CPS can continue to deliver sustainable and improved pensions, providing dignity and financial independence for retirees.

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NAICOM Gives Insurers May 31 Deadline To Comply With Law On Policyholders’ Protection Fund

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By Sola Alabadan

The National Insurance Commission (NAICOM) has given insurance operators a deadline of May 31 to submit the Insurance Policyholders’ Protection Fund (IPPF) Assessment Returns in respect of the year 2025.
According to the circular issued by NAICOM today, subsequently the insurance operators are required to submit the IPPF Assessment Returns in line with Section 4.3 of the Guideline on Fund.
Section 4.3 of the Guideline provides that “An insurer or reinsurer shall submit to the Commission an IPPF Assessment Returns on or before 31st March of each year indicating the gross written premium and brokerage commission in a prescribed format in respect of assessment period”.
NAICOM issued the Guidelines for the Collection, Management, and Administration of the IPPF in exercise of the powers conferred on the Commission by the Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act 2025 and other extant insurance laws and
regulation.
The Guidelines ensure regulatory clarity, guidance and ease compliance, as it provides a comprehensive regulatory framework for the collection, management, and administration of the
Fund which serves as a statutory safety net designed to protect insurance policyholders against distress and insolvency of a licensed insurer or reinsurer, including guidance for the
reimbursement of loans by an insurer or reinsurer.
All insurers, reinsurers and relevant insurance institutions are required to ensure strict compliance with this Guidelines.

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Daily Economy To Unveil New Insurance Book Today

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Daily Economy Concept, the Publisher of Daily Economy, a multimedia platform, has announced plans to celebrate its second anniversary with the official launch of a landmark book titled “Trends in Nigeria’s Insurance Industry (2005–2025) & Selected Insurance Icons.”

The event is scheduled to hold today in Lagos and is expected to bring together key stakeholders from across Nigeria’s insurance and financial sectors.

The occasion will feature prominent personalities in the insurance and financial services industry. The Commissioner for Insurance and Chief Executive Officer of the National Insurance Commission (NAICOM), Mr. Olusegun Omosehin, will be the Chief Keynote Speaker and Chief Presenter of the book.

The Chairman of the Occasion is the Chairman of Prestige Insurance Brokers Limited, Prince (Dr.) Feyisayo Soyewo, while the Special Guest of Honour is the Group Managing Director/CEO of the African Reinsurance Corporation, Dr. Corneille Karekezi.

Other distinguished guests expected at the event include the President of the Chartered Insurance Institute of Nigeria (CIIN), Mrs. Yetunde Ilori; Chairman of the Nigerian Insurers Association (NIA), Mr. Kunle Ahmed; and President and Chairman of the Governing Board of the Nigerian Council of Registered Insurance Brokers, Mrs. Ekeoma Ezeibe.

The book, written by Nike Popoola, a multiple award-winning journalist and Editor of Daily Economy, provides a comprehensive account of the transformation of Nigeria’s insurance industry over the past two decades. It documents major reforms, regulatory developments, recapitalisation efforts, and the contributions of notable industry leaders.

Speaking ahead of the launch, Popoola said the publication was inspired by the need to document the industry’s evolution and preserve its institutional memory.

“This book is the product of extensive research and years of covering the insurance sector. It tells the story of how the industry has evolved from a relatively underdeveloped sector into one that is increasingly relevant to Nigeria’s economy. Importantly, it highlights the people whose contributions have shaped this transformation,” she said.

Also speaking on the significance of the event, the Publisher of Daily Economy noted that the anniversary and book launch represent a major milestone for the organisation.

“As a publication committed to deepening financial literacy and industry knowledge, we are proud to present this book as a contribution to the insurance ecosystem. It is not just a celebration of our journey over the past two years, but also a platform to spotlight the growth and potential of Nigeria’s insurance industry,” the Publisher said.

The publication offers rich insights for industry professionals, policymakers, researchers, and students, while also featuring photographic documentation of key events that have shaped the industry over the last 20 years.

The event will provide a unique platform for knowledge sharing, networking, and reflection on the future of insurance in Nigeria.

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Leadway Assurance To Champion Climate Risk Solutions At Symposium In Germany

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Representatives of Leadway Assurance Company will be participating in the Africa Climate Insurance Symposium 2026, scheduled for March 31 to April 1, 2026, in Frankfurt, Germany, to advance climate risk solutions for Africa.
The symposium aims to kick off an annual cycle of such events bringing together a unique community operating in the area of Agricultural Index Insurance and therefore creating a highly specialized community of practice.
Beyond the annual event the country level experts will form clusters and with support and mobilisation of external solicitors will connect on an interim half year basis virtually to monitor and report on progress made.
During the symposium, Leadway will contribute to the panel discussion on ‘Scaling Agricultural Index Insurance for Resilient Food Systems’ – The private sector perspective and present a case study on innovative insurance models tailored for smallholder farmers. The Group will also participate in the Solution Showcase segment, where it will highlight the Leadway WeatherGuard product and share insights on collaborative initiatives that foster public-private partnerships for climate adaptation.
Themed “How Africa’s Insurers are Reshaping Climate Resilience from the Ground Up,” the symposium brings together insurance experts, development partners, and Agricultural stakeholders to explore practical, scalable responses to climate risks.
Leadway’s participation in the symposium aims to demonstrate how locally tailored made Agricultural Index insurance products have provided climate resilience for over three million Nigerian farmers, providing timely payouts in excess of N15 Billion in payouts over a five year period. This approach supports have farmer livelihoods, enables reinvestment, and underlines insurance’s role in strengthening food security and economic stability for African communities.
Speaking ahead of the event, Mr. Fatona Ayoola Paul, Leadway’s Global Head of Agricultural Risk Solutions, emphasised the urgency of strengthening Africa’s resilient frameworks through innovation, partnerships and collaboration. He explained that Leadway’s agricultural index insurance model stands out for using weather data and satellite technology to trigger automatic payouts when adverse conditions, such as drought or excessive rainfall, are recorded.
Unlike traditional indemnity insurance, this approach eliminates the need for costly, time-consuming farm assessments, enabling faster support to farmers. The insurance also offers bundled services, such as agronomic advisory services and digital enrollment, ensuring practical accessibility and greater impact for smallholder farmers.
“The demand for scaling Africa’s agricultural production is happening at interesting times when climate uncertainties and vulnerability are providing opportunities for innovation. This is where the Agricultural index insurance becomes an innovative concept that is now a practical tool transforming livelihoods across the continent. Platforms like this symposium allow us to deepen collaboration, share proven models, and accelerate impact to broaden such ingenious interventions across the continent,” he said.
The Africa Climate Insurance Symposium unites agricultural index insurance experts to build a dedicated community of practice. It drives cross-country collaboration among insurers, regulators, governments, and development partners, while encouraging international knowledge exchange. Through formal discussions and informal networking, participants will quickly share and replicate successful models to enhance regional cooperation.
The event brings together leaders and partners active in the insurance value chains such as Insuresilience Investment Funds (managed by Blue Orchard), Africa Reinsurance Corporation, Swiss Reinsurance, Continental Reinsurance, Pula Advisors, the Global Secretariat (BMZ/KFW), World Bank Global Shield Financing Facility, the Gates and Bayer Foundation among others to advance climate risk finance in Africa and continue laying the groundwork for regional replication.
With collaboration from key organisations and public-private partnerships, the symposium advances accessible, innovative insurance that bolsters African climate resilience and supports vulnerable communities. Leadway exemplifies African leadership through its actionable solutions and insights.

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