The Federal Government has commenced the implementation of new pension rates for retirees under the Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS), with eligible pensioners now receiving a flat rate of N32,000 alongside percentage increases of 10.66% and 12.95%.
The Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate (PTAD), in a statement on Tuesday, confirmed that the increments have been captured in the September 2025 payroll, following the partial release of N20.188 billion from an emergency allocation approved by President Bola Tinubu.
The funding forms part of a N45 billion package designed to ease the financial strain on DBS retirees. PTAD’s Head of Corporate Communications, Olugbenga Ajayi, described the move as a reaffirmation of the administration’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” and commitment to the welfare of senior citizens.
Beyond pension increases, Tinubu also approved health insurance coverage for DBS pensioners to ensure access to essential healthcare and reduce out-of-pocket medical costs.
A pension harmonisation policy will be incorporated into the 2026 budget, aimed at eliminating disparities among retirees and promoting equity across the system.
This development follows earlier government disbursements, including N5.12 billion in pension arrears to 90,689 pensioners in August. PTAD said the latest reforms mark “a new era” for Nigeria’s pension system, enhancing financial security and dignity for those who served under the DBS framework
