In a significant move to enhance service delivery, the National Pension Commission (PenCom) has announced the automation of the application process for pension clearance certificates, streamlining access for employers across Nigeria.
This development was unveiled by Mr. Abdulkadir Dahiru, Head of the Investment Supervision Department at PenCom, during the launch of the commission’s Service Charter and Framework, coinciding with Customer Service Week celebrations in Abuja. The pension clearance certificate is crucial for employers, ensuring they meet their obligations to employees regarding pension contributions.
Dahiru acknowledged the past challenges many employers faced in obtaining these essential documents, often involving lengthy procedures and bureaucratic hurdles. He emphasized that the new automated system, set to launch next year, will allow employers to apply for pension clearance certificates conveniently from their homes or offices, significantly reducing the time and effort previously required.
“The pension clearance certificate is one of the essential services provided by the National Pension Commission. Its primary purpose is to ensure that employers fulfill their obligations to their employees. We are aware that there have been issues in the past around obtaining these certificates, and our new strategy aims to address those challenges effectively,” Dahiru stated.
The automation of this process is expected to enhance compliance among employers, thereby contributing to the overall efficiency of Nigeria’s pension system. By making it easier for employers to access pension clearance certificates, PenCom hopes to foster a culture of accountability and transparency in pension contributions.
As the new system rolls out, stakeholders in the financial and employment sectors are optimistic that it will not only streamline operations but also promote better adherence to pension regulations, ultimately benefiting employees and the economy at large.