In a major boost for pension contributors and retirees, the National Pension Commission, PenCom, has announced the launch of a self-service online data recapture platform designed to simplify and fast-track pension record updates.
The new platform, known as the Data Recapture Self-Service Platform, PENCAP, officially went live on February 1.
Developed in collaboration with Pension Fund Administrators, PFAs, the initiative allows Retirement Savings Account, RSA, holders to update their personal records remotely without visiting PFA offices.
PenCom said the platform targets RSA holders who joined the Contributory Pension Scheme, CPS, on or before July 1, 2019, and have yet to complete the mandatory data recapture exercise.
According to the commission, the move marks another significant step toward improving data integrity, enhancing service delivery, and modernising pension administration through digital innovation.
PenCom explained that accurate and up-to-date data remain critical to the smooth administration of retirement savings under the CPS.
Over the years, inconsistencies arising from legacy records and incomplete documentation have created bottlenecks during verification and benefit processing.
The commission noted that although the direct recapture exercise began in August 2019 for both active contributors and retirees, progress has been slow, with many eligible RSA holders yet to complete the process.
“With PENCAP, contributors now have a secure and convenient channel to recapture their data. This will improve the quality and reliability of records across PFAs and support faster benefit processing,” the commission stated.
The online process requires a smartphone, computer, or any internet-enabled device with a camera to enable live image capture. RSA holders can create a secure profile using a personal email address, complete the recapture form, upload supporting documents where necessary, undergo biometric verification through live facial capture, and provide a digital signature to confirm authenticity.
After submission, the contributor’s PFA will review the application within a stipulated processing timeline, while automated email notifications will keep applicants informed about the status of their requests.
PenCom said the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s directive for all data-generating agencies to harmonise their databases with the National Identity Management Commission, NIMC, with the National Identification Number, NIN, serving as the unique identifier.
The commission had earlier deployed an Enhanced Contributor Registration System, ECRS, integrated with the NIMC database, to authenticate the identity of contributors under the CPS.
Completion of the data recapture exercise is mandatory for participation in the Retiree Enrolment and Verification Exercise and for accessing key pension services. These include processing retirement benefits, utilising part of RSA balances as equity contributions for residential mortgages, withdrawals due to temporary job loss, and transferring RSAs between PFAs.
PenCom warned that eligible RSA holders who fail to complete the exercise may be unable to access these services.
Vanguard
