Tinubu Delivers Lifeline: Free Healthcare Now Approved for Low-Income Retirees

President Bola Tinubu has directed the immediate rollout of free healthcare services for low-income retirees enrolled under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), signaling a bold new policy aimed at enhancing the welfare and dignity of Nigeria’s senior citizens.

This directive, part of a broader initiative to strengthen the nation’s social protection framework, was disclosed in Abuja by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga. He described the new measures as a strategic move to secure the well-being of pensioners who are most economically vulnerable.

Alongside this healthcare initiative, President Tinubu also ordered the long-overdue implementation of pension increases and the activation of a minimum pension guarantee to protect retirees from falling into destitution.

These developments followed a high-level briefing at the State House by the newly appointed Director-General of the National Pension Commission (PenCom), Ms. Omolola Oloworaran. During the session, the president also instructed PenCom to urgently resolve longstanding pension issues affecting retired police officers, whose protests in recent months have drawn national attention to their economic plight.

“Those who risked their lives to serve and protect the country deserve a retirement marked by dignity, not deprivation,” the president said.

One of the most contentious issues raised by police retirees is the structure of the CPS itself, which they argue has failed to provide adequate support post-service. Many have pushed for a total exit from the scheme, citing poor implementation and irregularities.

In response, the PenCom DG pledged swift action to address these concerns and also revealed plans for sweeping reforms. Among the new initiatives is the introduction of systems that would allow Nigerians in the diaspora to contribute to pension funds using foreign currencies—a move expected to broaden participation and fortify the pension structure.

Oloworaran also highlighted efforts to expand pension coverage across the country and improve retiree welfare in light of persistent inflation and economic challenges.

President Tinubu endorsed these reforms and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building an inclusive economy, especially one that honors the contributions of elderly citizens and former public servants.

The policy shift marks a significant moment in the federal government’s approach to pension administration, aligning with broader efforts to ensure economic justice for Nigeria’s aging population.