The National Pension Commission (PenCom) says it will launch its PenCare healthcare initiative for retirees in November 2026 as part of efforts to improve access to medical services and strengthen retirement welfare.
The Director-General of PenCom, Ms Omolola Oloworaran, disclosed this during the Senior Citizens Fair held on the third day of National Pension Week 2026 in Abuja.
She said a pilot phase of the initiative was already underway ahead of its wider implementation, describing healthcare costs as one of the major concerns confronting retirees.
Oloworaran said retirement welfare must go beyond the payment of pension benefits to address the broader needs of senior citizens, particularly access to affordable healthcare.
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She noted that many retirees face financial pressure from medical expenses at a stage of life when their regular income may be limited.
The Director-General said PenCom was also working to address disparities in pension payments and improve the administration of retirement benefits.
She urged senior citizens to share their experiences and concerns with the commission, saying their feedback would help strengthen policies and improve service delivery.
The Commissioner of Finance, Dr Charles Emukowhate, also highlighted the importance of healthcare support during retirement.
He noted that access to health insurance could reduce the burden of medical bills and preserve pension income for other essential needs.
The Senior Citizens Fair featured complimentary health checks, information on PenCare and registration for health insurance, alongside discussions on retirement planning and healthy ageing.
The event forms part of activities marking National Pension Week 2026, organised under the theme, “Pension for All: Building a Secure Future Together.”
