The National Pension Commission (PenCom) has launched a free healthcare initiative for retirees under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), targeting pensioners earning below N70,000 monthly.

The programme, known as PenCare, is designed to improve access to healthcare for low-income retirees and reduce the burden of medical expenses among elderly Nigerians.

In a statement, PenCom said the pilot phase is open to retirees aged 60 and above who receive monthly pensions of not more than N70,000 from their Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs).

The commission disclosed that registration for the scheme has commenced, noting that only 30,000 eligible pensioners would benefit in the first phase on a first-come, first-served basis.

According to PenCom, interested retirees can register by scanning the barcode published in national newspapers or by visiting the commission’s official website and the websites of participating PFAs.

PenCom described PenCare as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) efforts aimed at preserving the dignity, health and wellbeing of pensioners across the country.

The commission stated that the initiative reflects its commitment to improving the welfare of retirees through enhanced healthcare access and financial security in retirement.

PenCom added that the programme would help address growing healthcare challenges faced by pensioners with limited income while reaffirming its resolve to prioritise retirees’ welfare nationwide.