The National Pension Commission (PenCom) has launched a free healthcare initiative for low-income retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme. The scheme, known as PenCare, is designed to provide medical coverage to pensioners who earn less than ₦70,000 monthly.
PenCare pilot programme details
The pilot phase of PenCare is limited to 30,000 retirees aged 60 and above. Registration is already open and can be completed by scanning a barcode published in national newspapers or by visiting PenCom's official website and the websites of participating Pension Fund Administrators. The programme operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so eligible retirees are urged to register promptly.
Addressing healthcare challenges
PenCom described the initiative as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility efforts, aimed at preserving the dignity, health, and well-being of elderly Nigerians who face mounting medical expenses on limited incomes. A monthly pension of ₦70,000, the upper limit for PenCare eligibility, translates to roughly ₦2,300 per day, an amount that makes consistent access to quality healthcare effectively impossible for most beneficiaries without additional support. PenCom acknowledged this reality, noting that the programme is designed to address the growing healthcare challenges faced by pensioners with limited income.
Broader commitment to retiree welfare
The Commission added that PenCare reflects its broader commitment to improving retiree welfare through enhanced healthcare access and financial security in retirement. Nigeria's pension landscape has long been criticised for leaving retirees, particularly those in lower income brackets, without adequate welfare support after decades of service. Further details on the scope of medical services covered under PenCare, the healthcare facilities participating in the scheme, and the duration of the pilot phase have not yet been disclosed. Eligible retirees seeking more information can visit pencom.gov.ng or contact their respective Pension Fund Administrators directly.
