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New Pension Scheme: What Hope For Retirees?

Published

10 years ago

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With the different re
ports emanating from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), there is palpable fear and doubt among Nigerian workers and retirees over the payment of their pensions. Reports from various quarters are beginning to cast fears in the minds of the retirees and those who are still in service. This is because Federal Government that introduced the scheme has not shown commitment in the process of ensuring its success while employers in both private and public sectors are not complying with the pension contributory policy.
The National Pension Commission (PENCOM) recently decried the non-compliance of pension contributory policy by employers in both the private and public sectors. According to a report released on its website, teh commission said only 73,403 companies have so far embraced the contributory pension scheme and that 43,913 of the companies have largely complied with the provisions of the Pension Reform Act.
The commission added that seven million employees working in the public and private sectors have registered with Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) for the management of their pension contributions. The report stressed that the numbers of companies whose employees had so far registered is 73,403. Of this number, 43,918 employers have complied, whereas the remaining 29,485 are yet to comply.
The commission said since the Pension Regulatory Administration (PRA) 2004 became law, the Federal Government has yet to comply with the reduction of 18 per cent contributory pension of workers.
Percentage figure, according to the commission, was revisited upward from the PRA 2004 where both the employers and employees contribute 7.5 per cent each to add up to 15 per cent monthly, while the PRA 2014 was revisited upward to 18 per cent, yet the federal government is not complying with the reduction and remittance to the Pension Fund Administration on behalf of the workers in the federal service.
The 2014 Pension Reform Act stipulates that, “The contribution for any employee to which this act applies shall be made in the following rates relating to his monthly emoluments: a minimum of 10 per cent by the employer and 8 per cent by the employee”.
The PENCOM, in its one decade of operation as the regulator of pension industry has made reasonable achievements in alleviating the sufferings of Nigerian workers and making Nigerians see retirement as another phase of life that should not be feared. The challenge of getting some employers to be sincere enough to ensure that their employees enjoy the benefit of the contributory pension scheme as well as ensuring that the interest of many retirees who migrated from the old scheme are protected in the contributory pension scheme is staring the commission in the face and also affecting the retirees, thereby giving less hope to prospective retirees.
The Tide investigations show that many pensioners and workers are still not happy with the contributory pension scheme as they are at present lamenting that the commission and the various governments seem not to be mindful of their sufferings. Findings by The Tide show that in 10 years of experimenting the CPS, many private and public sector employers only deduct and remit 7.5 per cent of their workers’ salaries but fail to contribute their own 7.5 per cent to the employees’ Retirement Savings Account as stipulated by the law. There are also findings that till date, some employers deduct workers’ salaries but do not remit same to their RSAs.
However, PENCOM had some years ago sanctioned some employers for the negligence but current indications are that they have gone back to their usual way and their employees have made up their minds to accept things as they are to save their jobs. Some workers are demanding for the refund of their salaries so far deducted.
A cross-section of civil servants interviewed in Rivers State want the state governor, Barrister Nyesom Wike to phase out the Contributory Pension Scheme and refund the monies so far deducted from their salaries, saying it is a fraud on the workforce. They appealed to the governor to repeal the law establishing the scheme as it was an imposition on the workers by former Governor Chibuike Amaechi who allegedly failed to fulfil the government’s part of the scheme.
In separate interviews, many civil servants stressed the need to face out the contributory pension scheme, describing it as fraudulent on the workforce.
According to one of them, a director in the state civil service, the labour should  approach the Rivers State government to demand the reversal scheme should be reversed to the old one and give people what is due them on retirement. The director, who preferred to be anonymous, was of the opinion that government should cancel the whole idea as it has failed from the very first day it was conceived while the monies so far deducted should be refunded.
Another civil servant, Friday Badon asked the state government to repeal the contributory pension scheme by sending a bill to the State Assembly for the revocation of the law establishing it in the state, saying “as it is now, we don’t know what is happening and the scheme is not favourable to workers. Badon advised the government to continue with the old pension scheme, pointing out that a situation whereby workers’ pension is being contracted does not augur well for the workers.
In his own view, Mr Nwachukwu Igwe said, “we have been kept in the dark as regards the operation and success of the scheme and don’t know how efficient the scheme will be.”
Mr Godwin George in his own comment said.” Please, they should reimburse me my money they have deducted, I don’t need the scheme.” George, an accounts officer, alleged that the government is not remitting its part of the counterpart funding, pointing out that in Nigeria, such scheme cannot be well managed. He appealed to the present Rivers State government to revert to the old pension scheme which makes it easier for retirees to access their pensions as at when due and promptly too.
Also speaking to The Tide, Mrs Josephine Amadi said; “they should refund me my money because we are not sure of the contributory pension scheme which is like the National Housing Scheme that does not benefit workers”. The pension administrators are using our money to do  business and at the end, we will not benefit from it and we will be short-changed.”
She called on the government to look into the issue and save the state civil servants from the impending trauma they will face in the future.
Another civil servant, Mr Donatus Nwiueh in his reaction, said that government should abolish the contributory pension scheme in Rivers State as workers were forced to go into it by the immediate past administration.
As he put it, “the government is not contributing its quota and the money deducted from workers’ salaries are not being remitted into their Retirement Savings Accounts. All the monies so far deducted should be refunded.”
“The last administration lured us into the scheme, so this administration should rescue us by asking the pension managers to refund our money so that we go back to status quo”.
The Rivers State Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Comrade Chika Onuegbu in an interview with The Tide called for the repeal of the scheme in the state in order to avoid short-changing the worker Onuegbu said government should quickly review the state pension laws to conform to the Pension Reform Act 2014, adding that the state pension law as amended was essentially a domestication of the 2004 Pension Reform Act now repealed and replaced with the 2014 Pension Reform Act which came into effect from July 2014.
He noted that the contributory pension scheme in the state is totally being abused as many deductions from the workers’ salaries were not remitted into their Retirement Saving Accounts.
“The congress is constrained to take such decision to call on the state government to repeal the pension laws due to the capricious manner the subsisting pension law in the state is being administrated across ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs). The union will not accept the imposition of pension administrators on the civil servants by the state government,” Onuegbu stressed.

 

Shedie Okpara

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Women In STEAM: Overcoming underrepresentation: A Nigerian woman’s journey in Asian tech, design

Published

2 weeks ago

on

March 23, 2026

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In this episode of Women in STEAM, Nabhel Harmony, a Nigerian product designer living in Indonesia, reflects on her journey navigating the global tech industry as an African woman in the room.

Ms Harmony says underrepresentation is a major challenge, often leading to bias and underestimation.

PT: What inspired you to pursue a career in product design?

Ms Harmony: I began as a graphic designer in 2017, first learning CorelDRAW to help my mom with flyers, then building skills with Adobe Suite and working at a printing press. The real shift happened during my master’s programme when I came across a Microsoft UX video. That moment, along with learning Figma, inspired me to pursue product design. Since then, I have focused on creating intuitive, human-centred digital experiences, driven by the belief that design should be both impactful and useful.

PT: What experiences or skills do you think are essential to break into the field?

Ms Harmony: I think the essentials for breaking into design right now come in two layers. First, you still need a strong foundation in UX, understanding user needs, problem-solving, and being able to communicate ideas clearly. Tools like Figma are great, but more important is learning how to think like a designer: how to frame problems, test assumptions, and iterate.

The second layer is adaptability. With the rise of AI-powered tools like Stitch, Claude, Cursor, Lovable and others, the way we design is evolving. These tools can speed up workflows and even generate starting points for us, but they do not replace the need for critical thinking or empathy. I always encourage new designers to learn the traditional UX process and experiment with AI tools to see how they can supercharge creativity and productivity.

Finally, I would say, the designers who will thrive are those who are curious, willing to explore, and able to use both human insight and machine assistance to create experiences that feel truly meaningful.

PT: Can you share an example of a project that had a significant social impact, and how you approached designing for that specific challenge?

Ms Harmony: One project with real social impact was the redesign of iglooconnect, a platform that links smart locks with services like Airbnb. The old system was clunky and confusing, creating barriers for property managers, small businesses, and international users, sometimes even affecting safety and livelihoods. I approached it with empathy, becoming a user myself, gathering insights from support teams, and studying competitors.

We streamlined user flows, simplified navigation, and improved accessibility. The result was a platform that now supports thousands globally, helping property managers focus on hospitality, enabling small businesses to grow, and making the experience intuitive for international users. It reinforced for me that good design isn’t just about looks, it’s about equity, trust, and opportunity.

PT: As a senior product designer, what qualities do you look for in a design team, and how do you foster a collaborative and innovative environment?

Ms Harmony: As a senior product designer, I look for curiosity, empathy, and resilience in a design team. Curiosity drives exploration, empathy ensures we design for people and collaborate well, and resilience helps us embrace feedback and ambiguity. To foster collaboration and innovation, I focus on building trust, encouraging open dialogue, celebrating collective wins, and creating a safe space for experimentation and growth.

PT: As a design tutor, how do you approach mentoring junior designers, and what advice would you give to those looking to grow in their careers?

Ms Harmony: I mentor by focusing on mindset over tools. I encourage juniors to see design as problem-solving, not just screen-making. I give them small, real projects to build confidence, and I make feedback a two-way process so they learn to see critique as growth.

My advice is simple: stay curious, build portfolios that show your process (not just polished screens), and find a design community to learn with. Skills evolve, but curiosity, empathy, and resilience will always set great designers apart.

PT: Can you discuss your approach to designing accessible and user-centred solutions, and how you balance business needs with user requirements?

Ms Harmony: My approach to accessible, user-centred design starts with empathy. I focus on understanding user pain points, then simplify flows to make products clear, inclusive, and intuitive. To balance this with business needs, I connect user pain points to outcomes such as efficiency, adoption, and retention. For example, in one of my recent projects, I simplified access flows for property managers by creating an integrated dashboard which not only improved usability but also reduced support tickets, creating value for both users and the business.

PT: What challenges have you faced as a woman of African descent in the tech and design industries, and how have you overcome them?

Ms Harmony: One of the biggest challenges I have faced as a woman of African descent in tech and design is representation. Living in Asia, particularly here in Indonesia, I have often found myself as the only African woman in the room, which sometimes meant dealing with bias, being underestimated, or having to work harder to prove my expertise.

I have overcome this by leaning into resilience and community. I built networks with other designers and used those connections for support and growth. More importantly, I let my work speak for itself, focusing on delivering impact and creating meaningful solutions.

PT: How do you think designers can give back to the community, and are there initiatives you have been involved in to promote design education and awareness?

Ms Harmony: One of the most meaningful ways designers can give back is by creating access to knowledge, to opportunities, and representation. For many people, design may feel like an unfamiliar career path, especially now with the rapid rise of AI. And the first barrier is often simply not knowing where to start. By mentoring, sharing resources, and opening doors, we can demystify design and make it more inclusive.

ALSO READ: Women in STEAM: Excellence Joshua speaks on navigating motherhood, building a career

I have been mentoring women who are breaking into tech and design through She Code Africa. Additionally, I mentor on ADPList, guiding emerging designers worldwide on career growth. Last year, I partnered with the Interaction Design Foundation (IxDF) to provide free and discounted memberships, extending access to high-quality courses that many may not otherwise be able to afford. I also run a Telegram tech community of over 800 designers, where I regularly share opportunities like jobs, internships and courses that can help someone to take the next step in their career. Altogether, these efforts have allowed me to support hundreds of aspiring designers in building strong foundations and finding their place in the industry.

PT: How do you stay up-to-date with the latest design trends and technologies, and what resources would you recommend for others looking to do the same?

Ms Harmony: I stay up to date by staying active online, especially on Twitter (X). It may sound a little cheesy, but it genuinely works for me. I follow thought leaders and official design team accounts like Google Design, Microsoft Design, and tools like Figma and Framer on Twitter (X) and LinkedIn. I also make it a point to experiment with new tools as they are released, particularly AI-powered ones like Figma Make, Cursor, Lovable, and Stitch. From time to time, I complement this with online courses, which help me strengthen my foundation and stay adaptable.

For others, I would recommend a balance: structured learning through platforms like the Interaction Design Foundation or Coursera, paired with mentorship opportunities on ADPList or She Code Africa for aspiring African women in tech. That mix of formal education, community learning, and hands-on exploration is what keeps you not only up to date but truly adaptable in such a fast-moving field.

PT: What message would you like to convey to women and underrepresented groups who are interested in pursuing a career in tech and design, but may be hesitant or unsure?

Ms Harmony: My message would be simple: you belong here. Tech and design can sometimes feel intimidating, especially when you don’t see many people who look like you in the room, but your perspective is not just valid, it’s valuable. The industry needs diverse voices and experiences to create solutions that work for everyone. If you are hesitant, start small. Take a course, join a community like She Code Africa and surround yourself with people who will support and encourage you. Do not wait until you feel “ready”; none of us ever really does. Growth comes from trying, learning, and showing up consistently.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Ministry Raises Concern Over Rising Teenage Pregnancies, Begins Adolescent Sensitisation Campaign

Published

4 weeks ago

on

March 9, 2026

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The Department of Public Health in the Rivers State Ministry of Health has raised concern over the increasing cases of teenage pregnancies in society as it intensifies efforts to educate adolescents across the state.
Programme Manager for Adolescent Health and Development in the department, Mrs. Tammy Briggs, expressed the concern during a sensitisation programme held at Government Girls Secondary School Rumueme in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area of Rivers State.
Briggs explained that the campaign was designed to educate adolescents on the dangers of teenage pregnancy and other health-related issues affecting young people.
According to her, teenage pregnancy is currently on the rise, making it necessary for the ministry to step up awareness programmes among students.
“This is something that is on the rise for now. We have observed that there are many cases of teenage pregnancies, so we are here to sensitise them on ways to prevent it entirely,” she said.
She disclosed that the sensitisation campaign is being carried out in selected schools across four local government areas of the state, namely Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, Port Harcourt City Local Government Area, Ogba/Egbema/Ndoni Local Government Area and Eleme Local Government Area.
Briggs noted that the programme focuses on several key issues affecting adolescents, including sexual and reproductive health, gender-based violence, teenage pregnancy, substance abuse, emotional health and proper nutrition.
She added that the outreach programme also featured tuberculosis screening for students as well as the distribution of sanitary pads and mathematical sets to support their health and academic development.
The programme manager commended the management of Government Girls Secondary School Rumueme for their cooperation and support in hosting the sensitisation exercise. She also advised the students to avoid behaviours that could jeopardise their future.
Speaking during the session, Dr. Nwadike Chinonso urged the students to make informed decisions about their lives and remain focused on their education.
He cautioned them against engaging in early sexual activities, stressing that abstinence remains one of the most effective ways to prevent sexually transmitted infections and unintended pregnancies.
Some of the students who participated in the programme expressed appreciation to the team for the awareness campaign and pledged to apply the knowledge gained to make responsible life choices.

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PH Ring Road: The October Delivery Promise

Published

4 weeks ago

on

March 9, 2026

By

The recent assurance by the Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, that the ongoing Port Harcourt Ring Road would be completed by October this year has rekindled hope among Rivers people. For many people of the state who have endured months of disruption and uncertainty, the promise comes as a breath of fresh air. The importance of the project cannot be overstated; it represents not just a road network but a vital artery for economic activity and mobility across the state.
Stretching across six local government areas—Port Harcourt, Obio-Akpor, Ikwerre, Etche, Eleme, and Ogu-Bolo—the project covers about 50.15 kilometres and includes six flyovers. Initiated in July 2023 and executed by Julius Berger Nigeria, the ambitious undertaking was conceived to ease traffic congestion, stimulate economic growth, and improve connectivity between communities.
However, the project’s journey has not been smooth. When construction stalled last year, many residents who depended on the affected routes found themselves in severe difficulty. Commuters, traders, and transport operators suddenly had to navigate half-finished sections, diversions, and rough terrain.
Perhaps nowhere has the hardship been more visible than around the Ogbogoro axis, where residents continue to face daily inconvenience. For many families, the unfinished road has turned routine travel into a gruelling ordeal. Long detours, damaged vehicles, and rising transport costs have become the bitter reality.
The scale of disruption was significant. Houses were demolished to make way for the road expansion, businesses were displaced, and livelihoods were interrupted. While such sacrifices are sometimes inevitable in large infrastructure projects, the prolonged delay left many people in dire straits.
It is therefore understandable that the governor’s renewed commitment has been greeted with cautious optimism. For residents who have borne the brunt of the disruption, the promise of completion offers the prospect of relief and restoration. In many quarters, hope is gradually replacing frustration.
When finished, the Ring Road is expected to give the state a much-needed facelift. In a nation where several public projects have suffered abandonment over the years, many feared the same fate might befall this landmark development. That concern is precisely why the latest assurance has struck a chord with the public.
Governor Fubara’s recent inspection of the project site and his firm declaration that the road would be delivered by October have helped steady public confidence. Actions such as these signal seriousness and accountability—qualities citizens increasingly demand from public officials.
Nevertheless, while the governor deserves commendation for the renewed momentum, the task before him goes beyond this single project. Other initiatives already commenced under his administration, as well as those inherited from previous governments, should also receive the attention required for completion.
Indeed, governance is a collective enterprise. Stakeholders across the state must rally behind the administration to ensure progress is not hindered. Political actors, community leaders, and civil society groups all have a role to play in creating the environment necessary for effective governance.
Rivers State has endured its fair share of political turbulence in recent years, and infrastructure development has sometimes been caught in the crossfire. It is therefore imperative that institutions such as the Rivers State House of Assembly work constructively with the executive arm so that citizens can finally enjoy the dividends of democracy.
The earlier six-month halt during the period of emergency rule should serve as a lesson. Infrastructure projects of this magnitude cannot afford prolonged interruptions. The governor must therefore ensure that such setbacks do not recur, and that other projects under his watch do not suffer a similar fate.
Regular site visits and close monitoring of the contractors will also be essential. Such oversight will not only accelerate progress but will demonstrate to the contractors and the public alike that the government considers the project a priority.
Beyond the physical structure of asphalt and concrete, the road carries broader economic promise. Improved connectivity among the affected local government areas will facilitate trade, reduce travel time, and open new opportunities for businesses. It will also enhance access to markets, schools, and healthcare facilities for thousands of residents.
Ultimately, meeting the October deadline is only half the task. The quality of the work must meet the highest standards to guarantee durability and safety for the countless commuters who will use the road daily. The security of the construction workers must also remain paramount to prevent kidnapping or other threats. Delivering the Port Harcourt Ring Road on schedule, and doing it well, would indeed be the right step forward for Rivers State.
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