Pension Reform Administration in Nigeria: a Case Study of Edo State Civil Service, Edo State, Nigeria

ABSTRACT This study examines pension reform administration in Nigeria, focusing on the Edo State Civil Service. The research employs a structured questionnaire to gather data from 350 respondents using a simple random sampling technique. The findings reveal that a significant proportion of retirees depend heavily on pension benefits, with 57% of respondents affirming this reliance, while 13% disagree and 30% remain neutral. Additionally, 63% of respondents perceive pension reforms and their administration in Nigeria as satisfactory. However, a majority believe that pension benefits lose their value due to prolonged payment delays, creating financial hardship for pensioners. Furthermore, 77% of respondents support the computerization of pension schemes as a means to eliminate fraudulent pension claims and improve efficiency. The study highlights several challenges in Nigeria’s pension administration, including bureaucratic inefficiencies, corruption, and inadequate record-keeping, which hinder timely payments. Despite reforms, many pensioners still face difficulties in accessing their benefits due to systemic bottlenecks. The research underscores the urgent need for improved governance structures, stricter regulatory oversight, and a transparent pension management framework to enhance the efficiency of pension disbursements. To address these issues, the study recommends establishing a robust auditing mechanism to monitor pension boards and ensure accountability. Additionally, the adoption of digital record-keeping and biometric verification can streamline the pension process and prevent fraudulent claims. Furthermore, public sensitization on financial planning for retirement is crucial to reduce sole dependence on pension benefits. Ultimately, an efficient pension administration system is vital for ensuring the welfare of retirees and maintaining public trust in the government’s ability to provide social security. The study concludes that sustained policy improvements and strategic investments in pension infrastructure will significantly contribute to the economic well-being of pensioners and, by extension, national development.