The Federal Government has introduced a new healthcare initiative aimed at improving access to medical services for low-income retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).
The programme, known as PenCare, was launched by the National Pension Commission to provide free healthcare coverage for eligible pensioners earning ₦70,000 or less per month.
According to PenCom, the pilot phase targets about 30,000 retirees aged 60 and above who are currently receiving monthly pensions from Pension Fund Administrators. Registration for the scheme has already commenced on a first-come, first-served basis.
The commission said the initiative is part of its social responsibility efforts to reduce the burden of rising medical costs and improve the welfare of vulnerable pensioners across the country.
Analysts say the programme could provide significant relief for elderly Nigerians struggling with healthcare expenses, while also strengthening social protection under the pension system.
PenCom also indicated that there are plans to expand the scheme in future phases to cover more retirees nationwide.
