By Chuks Oyema-Aziken
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Sen. George Akume, CON, has inaugurated the new Board of the National Pension Commission (PenCom), charging members to uphold the highest standards of integrity, transparency, and effective governance. The SGF emphasized that the Board’s mandate includes providing strategic direction, policy guidance, and oversight in line with the Pension Reform Act 2014.
Speaking on the occasion, the SGF warned Board members against interfering with operational responsibilities, stressing that proper governance requires a clear separation between oversight and management. He also reaffirmed the government’s commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to address outstanding pension liabilities and ensure that retirees receive their pensions with dignity, certainty, and timeliness.
Christopher Ugwuegbulam, Head of Information & Public Relations, Office of the SGF, noted that the inauguration reflects the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s pension system and safeguard retirement savings for public servants. He highlighted the importance of effective collaboration between the Board and the Commission for institutional success.
The PenCom Board is chaired by Dr. Opeyemi Agbaje, with members including Hon. Hafiz Muhammad Kawu Ibrahim (Technical), Samuel Chigozie Uwanda (Inspectorate), Charles Efe Sylvester Emukowhate (Finance), Bello Abubakar Malabu (Administration), and representatives from government ministries, labour unions, pensioners’ groups, and regulatory agencies such as the Central Bank of Nigeria, Securities and Exchange Commission, Nigerian Stock Exchange, and National Insurance Commission.
Dr. Agbaje assured the Federal Government of the Board’s commitment to corporate governance, integrity, and adherence to best practices, while avoiding operational interference.
He stated that the Board aims to leverage pension funds as a catalyst for national development.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary of the General Services Office, Dr. Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, mni, said reforms by successive governments have strengthened PenCom’s role in protecting retirement savings. He emphasized that the Board’s decisions will directly affect both current retirees and active public servants who depend on the pension system.
PenCom Director-General, Ms. Omolola Bridget Oloworaran, pledged continued collaboration between the Commission and the Board. She congratulated members on their appointments and expressed optimism for a tenure marked by impact, innovation, and improved institutional performance.
The inauguration ceremony was attended by management staff from the Office of the SGF and PenCom, highlighting the importance of teamwork and transparency in the administration of pensions.
With this new Board in place, the Federal Government signals its determination to restore public confidence in the pension system and ensure that retirement funds are managed efficiently for the benefit of all Nigerians.
