The National Pension Commission is automating the process for applying for pension clearance certificates, making it easier for employers to access this essential document.
This development was announced by the Head of the Investment Supervision Department at PenCom, Mr Abdulkadir Dahiru, during the launch of the commission’s Service Charter and Framework as part of Customer Service Week celebrations in Abuja on Thursday.
Dahiru highlighted the importance of the pension clearance certificate, explaining that it ensures employers fulfill their obligations to employees.
He acknowledged past challenges in obtaining the certificates and emphasised that the commission’s new strategy aims to address these issues.
The automation, set to take effect starting next year, allows employers to apply for the certificates from the convenience of their homes or offices.
“The pension clearance certificate is one of the essential services provided by the National Pension Commission and the reason for it is to ensure that employers fulfill their obligations to their employees. We are aware that in the past, there have been issues around getting the certificates.
“Based on the Commission’s renewed strategy to improve its services, the whole process of issuing pension clearance certificates has been automated. Starting from next year, employers can sit at the comfort of their homes and offices, apply for these certificates, upload the necessary documentation and within five working days will receive their certificates,” he noted.
In her opening remarks, the acting Director-General of PenCom, Omolola Bridget-Oloworaran, emphasized the significance of the event and described it as a major milestone for PenCom and the entire pension industry.
She stated, “As the regulator of Nigeria’s pension industry, PenCom has an unwavering commitment to ensuring that the services provided to all stakeholders—especially our contributors and retirees—are not only efficient but also uphold the highest standards of professionalism, transparency, and responsiveness. Today’s launch represents a pivotal step forward in strengthening this commitment.”
She highlighted that the Service Charter is designed to define clear service delivery expectations for PenCom, Pension Fund Administrators, and other operators, thereby setting benchmarks that will enhance public trust in the pension system.
Omolola Bridget-Oloworaran encouraged all stakeholders to see the Service Charter and Framework as “living documents” that will guide continuous service improvements, aiming to exceed the expectations of contributors.
