The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, has inaugurated the Board of the National Pension Commission (PenCom), tasking members to uphold transparency, accountability, and strong governance in managing Nigeria’s pension system.

Akume said the inauguration reflects the Federal Government’s renewed commitment to strengthening pension administration and protecting the retirement savings of workers.

He noted that the Board’s responsibilities are clearly defined under the Pension Reform Act 2014, stressing that members are expected to provide strategic direction, policy guidance, and effective oversight.

“Today’s inauguration underscores the Federal Government’s unwavering commitment to a pension system that is transparent, resilient, and trusted by all,” he said. “Your mandate is clear—provide strategic direction, policy guidance, and effective oversight in line with the law and relevant frameworks.”

The SGF urged the Board to operate with integrity and sound judgment, cautioning against interference in the day-to-day operations of the Commission, which could undermine established governance structures.

He also reiterated the commitment of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to clear outstanding pension liabilities, rebuild public confidence, and ensure retirees receive their entitlements promptly and with dignity.

The newly inaugurated Board is chaired by Dr Opeyemi Agbaje. Other members include Hafiz Muhammad Kawu Ibrahim (Commissioner, Technical), Samuel Chigozie Uwanda (Commissioner, Inspectorate), Charles Efe Sylvester Emukowhate (Commissioner, Finance), and Bello Abubakar Malabu (Commissioner, Administration).

Additional members are Abdul Sule Usman Garba (representing the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation), Aderonke Jaiyesimi (Federal Ministry of Finance), Joseph Ajaero (Nigeria Labour Congress), Tajuddeen Ubayi (Trade Union Congress), Godwin Abumisi (Nigeria Union of Pensioners), Adewale Smatt-Oyerinde (Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association), Muhammad Sani Abdullahi (Central Bank of Nigeria), Emomotitmi Agama (Securities and Exchange Commission), Umaru Kwairanga (Nigerian Exchange), and Olusegun Ayo Omosehin (National Insurance Commission).

Speaking on behalf of the Board, Chairman Opeyemi Agbaje pledged alignment with the Federal Government’s governance principles, promising to uphold accountability, corporate governance, and a clear separation between oversight and management functions.

He thanked President Tinubu for the opportunity to serve and expressed the Board’s commitment to leveraging pension funds to support national development.

Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, General Services Office, Dr Ibrahim Abubakar Kana, said ongoing reforms have strengthened pension administration and positioned PenCom as a critical institution for safeguarding retirement savings.

He noted that the Board’s work would have far-reaching impact on both retirees and serving public servants.

Also speaking, the Director-General of PenCom, Omolola Oloworaran, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to a productive working relationship with the Board, anchored on established governance principles.

She congratulated the members and expressed optimism that their tenure would deliver innovation, improved performance, and stronger institutional outcomes.

The event was attended by senior officials from the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation and the National Pension Commission.