Nigeria’s pension industry has grown tremendously over the past decade, playing a critical role in securing the retirement futures of millions of workers across the country.
According to the latest data from the National Pension Commission (PenCom), Nigeria’s total pension fund assets rose to N24.11 trillion as of May 2025 a 1.91% increase from the previous month.
This growth reflects steady contributions and market returns, despite inflationary pressures and foreign exchange fluctuations.
Behind the success of the nation’s leading pension companies are visionary leaders CEOs who combine financial expertise with strategic foresight to manage billions in retirement assets.
These executives are not just administrators; they are innovators, driving growth, improving customer trust, and ensuring that retirement funds are invested wisely and securely.
From expanding digital platforms to introducing innovative investment strategies, these CEOs are shaping the future of pensions in Nigeria, one decision at a time.
In this feature, we take a closer look at the people steering Nigeria’s top pension companies and how their leadership is redefining retirement planning in the country.
Asset under management: N178.6 billion
When Abdullahi Aliyu took the helm of OAK Pensions in April 2020, he brought with him three decades of experience in Nigeria’s financial services sector.
- A graduate of Bayero University, Kano where he earned both his accounting degree and an MBA Aliyu began his career at the Kaduna State Board of Internal Revenue in 1990 before moving into banking.
- His path included treasury roles at the Nigerian Industrial Development Bank and FBN Merchant Bank, followed by a decade at Pensions Alliance Limited, where he rose to executive director.
- With more than 30 years of financial sector experience, Aliyu’s career reflects a steady rise through Nigeria’s banking and pension landscape.
Under his leadership, OAK Pensions has reported steady growth. In 2022, the company’s audited Retirement Savings Accounts funds reached N144.55 billion, up 16 percent from N124.16 billion in 2021. Aliyu has sharpened his expertise with executive training at Wharton, Columbia, London Business School, and Lagos Business School, positioning him as one of the industry’s more globally minded leaders.
According to published data the company has a total asset under management of N178.9 billion. As of June 2025, the company recorded a 1.94% monthly gain on all RSA funds in subtotal.
