By David Akinmola
In a push improve healthcare access for retired Nigerians, the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD) has revealed plans to enroll its pensioners into the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) by 2026.
The move is part of broader efforts to enhance the welfare of senior citizens and fully implement pension sector reforms.
The initiative, developed in collaboration with the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), announced in Lagos during the 2024/2025 yearly General Meeting of the National Association of Insurance/Pension Editors (NAIPE).
Speaking at the event on behalf of the Executive Secretary/Chief Executive Officer, Tolulope Odunaiya, the Head of Corporate Communication, Olugbenga Ajayi, said the planned enrolment undercores the agency’s growing focus on ensuring that pensioners have access to critical health services during their retirement years.
According to him, the wellbeing of pensioners remains paramount. We understand that this is the stage in life when healthcare is not a luxury but a necessity.
Ajayi stated, that is why we have started discussion with NHIA to ensure that by 2026, if not all, at least 90 per cent of pensioners in the country will be covered under the national health insurance scheme.
For him, the agency has continued to roll out various initiatives to make ;ife easier for its retirees. Among them is the introduction of Mobile Verification, which provides off-site confirmation for incapacitated or ill pensioners who are unable to undergo the regular “I am Alive” verification process.
“Our teams from Lagos and Kaduna regulately visit retirees to ensure they are not left out, especially those in poor health. This is part of our broader commitment to efficient, humane pension administration,” he said.
Beyond healthcare, the agency has reaffirmed its resolve to clear all outstanding pension arrears and implement statutory increments. The Directorate said it is working closely with relevant authorities to ensure that by 2026, all entitlements are fully budgeted and paid without delays.
Currently operating in 13 states, PTAD continues to expand it reach and services, positioning itself as a proactive force in Nigeria’s pension administration ecosystem.
The move to intergrate health insurance into the pension framework is seen as a progressive step that could improve the quality of life for tens of thousands of retirees across the country many of whom lack regular access to medical care.
