The National Pension Commission (PenCom) has launched a free healthcare initiative for low-income pensioners across Nigeria in a move aimed at easing the burden of rising medical costs among retirees.
The programme, known as PenCare, is targeted at vulnerable retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme who earn very low monthly pensions and struggle to access quality healthcare after retirement.
PenCom disclosed that the pilot phase of the initiative will cover about 30,000 pensioners nationwide, particularly retirees aged 60 years and above receiving monthly pensions below N70,000.
According to the commission, registration for the programme has commenced through Pension Fund Administrators and designated online platforms, with beneficiaries to be selected on a first-come, first-served basis.
The initiative is expected to provide free access to basic healthcare services, medications, medical consultations and treatment support for eligible pensioners, many of whom have complained about the harsh economic realities and soaring healthcare expenses.
PenCom said the programme was introduced as part of efforts to improve the welfare, dignity and quality of life of retirees who contributed to Nigeria’s pension system during their active years but now face financial hardship in old age.
The commission noted that many pensioners spend a significant portion of their monthly stipends on medical bills, leaving little for feeding, housing and other essential needs.
Officials added that the healthcare scheme aligns with the Federal Government’s broader social protection and pension reform agenda aimed at strengthening support for elderly Nigerians.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had earlier directed the implementation of welfare measures for low-income retirees, including improved healthcare access and pension-related interventions.
Stakeholders in the pension industry have welcomed the development, describing it as a major relief for thousands of retirees battling chronic illnesses and economic pressure.
Many pensioners and advocacy groups have also urged the Federal Government to sustain and expand the programme beyond the pilot phase to accommodate more beneficiaries across the country.
