PenCom Launches Free Healthcare Scheme for Low-Income Pensioners

By LOVETH AZODO, Lagos.

The National Pension Commission (PenCom) has launched a free healthcare initiative targeted at low-income retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), in a move aimed at easing the growing burden of medical expenses among pensioners.

The initiative, known as PenCare, is designed as a Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programme focused on improving the health and well-being of retirees, particularly those receiving modest monthly pensions.

Under the pilot phase of the programme, PenCom said retirees who are at least 60 years old and earn monthly pensions of not more than ₦70,000 from their respective Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) are eligible to enroll.

The Commission disclosed that registration has commenced for up to 30,000 qualified retirees on a first-come, first-served basis.

Eligible pensioners have been advised to register through the Commission’s official website or via the websites of their PFAs. Registration can also be completed through barcode links published in national newspapers and other official communication channels.

PenCom described the initiative as part of broader efforts to preserve the dignity of retirees and improve their access to healthcare services at a time when rising medical costs continue to place pressure on senior citizens living on fixed incomes.

“PenCare is a CSR project dedicated to preserving your dignity and well-being by reducing the burden of medical expenses,” the Commission stated.

Industry observers say the programme represents a significant intervention in Nigeria’s pension landscape, where many retirees often struggle with healthcare costs after leaving active service.

Analysts also note that the initiative could strengthen confidence in the Contributory Pension Scheme by extending support beyond pension payments to broader welfare concerns affecting retirees.

The launch of PenCare comes amid increasing conversations around social protection and retirement welfare, particularly for low-income pensioners who remain vulnerable to rising inflation and healthcare challenges.

Stakeholders within the pension industry have welcomed the initiative, describing it as a timely effort to provide additional support for retirees and improve their quality of life.

With registration now open, attention is expected to focus on the implementation of the pilot phase and the potential expansion of the programme to accommodate more pensioners across the country.