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Tag: Access ARM Pensions

  • Access ARM Pensions surges past N4tr in post-merger momentum

    Access ARM Pensions surges past N4tr in post-merger momentum

    Access ARM Pensions has exceeded the N4 trillion mark in assets under management (AUM), marking a major milestone and underscoring the strong momentum following the merger of Access Pensions and ARM Pensions.

    The achievement represents a significant increase from less than N3 trillion AUM recorded at the completion of the merger in October 2024. Since then, the combined entity has accelerated growth, supported by stronger governance structures, enhanced investment capabilities, and an expanded nationwide presence.

    The rapid increase of over N1 trillion in AUM in less than 14 months reflects growing confidence among contributors, increased contribution flows, and improved customer engagement enabled by more robust digital platforms and service channels.

    Commenting on the milestone, Acting Managing Director, Abimbola Sulaiman, described the achievement as a clear indication of the trust placed in the institution and the strength of its operating model.

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     “Crossing the N4 trillion threshold is not just a milestone; it is a strong affirmation of the confidence our clients place in Access ARM Pensions. Since the merger, we have deliberately built an institution with stronger governance, deeper investment expertise, and the scale required to deliver long-term value across economic cycles. This growth reflects disciplined execution and a consistent focus on acting in the best interests of our clients.”

    She added that innovation would remain central to the company’s growth strategy, with continued investment in technology to enhance service delivery and deepen engagement across customer touchpoints.

     “Innovation will continue to guide how we serve our clients. By leveraging technology, data, and modern service infrastructure, we are simplifying the pension experience and building a more responsive and reliable retirement system. As we continue to grow, our priorities remain unchanged: consistent investment performance, strong risk management, and dependable service that gives our clients confidence in their retirement future.”

    With over two million Retirement Savings Accounts under management, Access ARM Pensions maintains one of the largest contributor bases in Nigeria’s pension industry. The company remains focused on strengthening its investment processes, enhancing customer experience, and delivering sustainable, long-term retirement outcomes for contributors nationwide.

  • Access ARM Pensions mobilises for voluntary contributions

    Access ARM Pensions mobilises for voluntary contributions

    Access ARM Pensions has stepped up its awareness campaign on the benefits of Additional Voluntary Contributions (AVCs), encouraging Nigerians to adopt the scheme as a reliable way to achieve financial stability in retirement.

    The call was made during a virtual webinar themed “Boost Your Retirement: Making the Most of Additional Voluntary Contributions,” where participants were educated on how AVCs can strengthen financial security and cushion unforeseen economic uncertainties.

    Speaking at the webinar, the Head of Customer Experience, Olushola Adekunle, explained that AVCs give contributors an opportunity to supplement their statutory pension savings, bridging income gaps that often emerge at retirement.

    Olushola said: “Retirement does not have to mean a sharp drop in your quality of life. With AVCs, individuals can secure an income that allows them to live in retirement as comfortably as they did while working. What your salary could not do for you while in active service, your pension will not magically fix in retirement, but you can change the outcome by choosing to make AVCs today.”

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    Also speaking, Head of Benefit Administration, Ayodeji Ayo-Majaro, highlighted reforms by the National Pension Commission that have made AVCs more attractive, including provision of a one-year retention rule that allow contributors to withdraw up to 50 per cent of their AVC contributions after one year. He added that contributors who leave their AVCs untouched for at least five years enjoy tax exemptions on principal and returns.

    He noted: “Retirement planning is not just about putting money aside; it is about preserving your quality of life. AVCs give workers the flexibility to build extra savings during their active years, so retirement does not come with financial shock. The scheme’s attractive features, such as reducing your tax liabilities and partial withdrawals, make it easier for contributors to align pension savings with personal goals. Whether you are a salary earner, self-employed, or a contract worker, AVCs provide a pathway to retire with dignity and peace of mind.”

    Beyond individuals in formal employment, the firm emphasized the industry’s broadened focus on small businesses and the self-employed through the Micro Pension Plan, which allows artisans, traders, and entrepreneurs to build retirement savings in a flexible manner tailored to irregular income patterns.

    The highly interactive webinar reflected Access ARM Pensions’ commitment to strengthening client engagement, as participants commended the clarity and relevance of the responses provided to their questions.

  • Pension firm advocates micro top-ups to boost workers’ RSAs

    Pension firm advocates micro top-ups to boost workers’ RSAs

    Access ARM Pensions has urged civil servants to embrace small but consistent voluntary contributions to their Retirement Savings Accounts (RSAs), describing the habit as a simple and effective way to build long-term financial security.

    The call was made by Executive Director, Technical, Mr. Afolabi Folayan, during his keynote address at International Civil Service Conference in Abuja.

    Speaking on “Building Financial Resilience for the Nigerian Civil Service of the Future,” Folayan noted the need to rethink retirement planning beyond statutory deductions.

    He said: “We must turn concern into strategy. As leaders of the pension ecosystem, our job is to build a system that is not just safe, but smart. Not just secure, but inclusive. Not just mandatory, but meaningful. Civil servants should be able to top up their pensions anytime, even with just N1,000 from their phones. Over time, compound interest takes care of the rest.”

    He highlighted core challenges civil servants face when preparing for retirement, including inflation, currency depreciation, inadequate financial literacy, and rising post-retirement obligations. According to him, voluntary top-ups offer a simple yet effective strategy to cushion future economic shocks.

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    Folayan noted achievements of the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), which  boasts over N23.3 trillion in assets but said much of the investment is concentrated in government securities, which may yield below inflation in the long run. Recognising that retirement is no longer a passive stage, Folayan underscored the need for pension systems to evolve with  realities of retirees.

    He added: “Retirement today is not the quiet twilight it once was. It is dynamic. Retirees are caregivers, business mentors, community leaders etc. They face rising medical costs, family responsibilities, and often still want to contribute- in new ways. Our pension system must meet them where they are, not where they were.

    Folayan also called for pension funds and employers to collaborate on more integrated retirement solutions. He proposed creation of financial wellness hubs offering budgeting tools and retirement planning support; health partnerships that provide access to affordable medical care, and accessible mortgage s for civil servants’ income profiles.

    He also urged that technology should be leveraged to empower contributors, suggesting mobile-friendly platforms that include pension growth simulators, life-stage guidance tools, biometric login for added security, and real-time transparency on balances, fees, and investment performance.

    He concluded: “We stand at crossroads. We can continue with a system that delivers the minimum or we can build one that delivers the dignity every civil servant deserves. A system that rejuvenates trust in public service, innovates for financial inclusion, and accelerates us toward long-term economic resilience.”

  • Access ARM Pensions posts N28.2b revenue

    Access ARM Pensions posts N28.2b revenue

    Access ARM Pensions has posted full-year results for 2024, reporting revenue of N28.2 billion, topping the N12.3 billion in 2023.

    Pre-tax profit rose by 164 per cent to N15.2 billion, while post-tax profit surged by 187 per cent to N10.9 billion. Assets Under Management (AUM) also climbed to N3.5 trillion.

    Despite headwinds, the company attributed its performance to the strict execution of a well-structured post-merger integration plan, stronger investment capabilities, and an expanding service footprint.

    Speaking at the Annual General Meeting in Lagos at the weekend, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Access ARM Pensions, Dave Uduanu, said: “Our 2024 performance was the result of a disciplined execution of a post-merger integration plan, deepening our investment capabilities, and leveraging technology to deliver better service at scale as revenue grew to N28.2 billion from N12.3 billion in 2023, and PAT rose to N10.9 billion, a testament to operational synergies and improved efficiency.”

    Uduanu noted that the merger between Access Pensions and ARM Pensions created efficiencies that have translated into improved financial outcomes. “We planned for this merger, engaging a world-class consulting firm, and preparing a comprehensive post-merger integration plan. Both management and the board have executed this plan, and the results speak for themselves,” he said.

    Uduanu also said Access ARM Pensions made substantial investments in digital infrastructure and expanded its customer service footprint. “We enhanced our digital capabilities and opened service centres to better serve our clients… We retained talents from both organisations and are committed to developing and supporting our people.”

    He added 2025 is even more promising. “Our assets under management stand at N3.5 trillion… We expect significant growth this year, and the numbers in 2025 will reflect the full benefits of a complete year of post-integration performance…the merger was consolidated in October, so the 2024 financials reflect three months of the combined entity’s operations. We are confident 2025 results will reflect a full year of synergies and will show better performance.”

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    Chairman of Access ARM Pensions, Gbenga Oyebode, emphasised the strategic importance of the merger and the board’s focus on long-term value creation.

    He said: “Indeed, 2024 was a defining year for us. As a Board, our foremost priority was ensuring that the merger created a stronger, more resilient institution not just on paper, but in culture, governance, and long-term value creation,” Oyebode stated.

    “We were deliberate in aligning both entities under a unified vision, harmonising risk frameworks, and strengthening board and management oversight structures. The merger wasn’t just about scale; it was about sharpening our competitive edge while staying true to our fiduciary duty to contributors and retirees. We are proud that today, Access ARM Pensions is a top player in the pension fund industry in Nigeria with a robust governance platform ready for the future,” he added.

    Shareholders have expressed confidence in the company’s trajectory. Aliyu Yar’Adua, a shareholder, remarked that with only three months of post-merger operations reflected in the 2024 results, the outlook for the next financial year is even more encouraging. “This shows a great promise for a better performance this year,” Yar’Adua said.

  • Firm strengthens customer engagement, raises  service delivery

    Firm strengthens customer engagement, raises  service delivery

    Access ARM Pensions has reinforced its commitment to deepening customer relationships and improving service efficiency as it navigates the evolving landscape of Nigeria’s pension industry.

    Speaking at the Human Resources and Pension Desk Officers (HR/PDO) Forum themed: “The Pension Industry in the Next Five Years” in Lagos recently, company executives unveiled strategic initiatives aimed at modernising pension administration, integrating technology, and expanding financial security for contributors.

    Associate Director of Access ARM Pensions, Adaora Ude, emphasised the company’s focus on a customer-first approach. She highlighted the rapid expansion of Access ARM Pensions’ client base following the merger of Access Pensions and ARM Pensions.

    “We are here because we hope this will be one of many conversations. We are learning together and building relationships. Previously, we served just over a million customers, but now we serve more than two million. This growth is exciting, but it also means we must ensure that our processes are efficient.”

    Ude reaffirmed the company’s commitment to high service standards, emphasising the importance of responsiveness. “Our approach is different. Some say we go the extra mile. That is because we understand that our customers are our priority. When a customer raises an issue, we do not rest until it is resolved.”

    She added that Access ARM Pensions is investing in cutting-edge technology to enhance efficiency recognising the transformative role of digital solutions in pension administration.

    “As part of this digital drive, the company plans to introduce advanced tools and training sessions designed to streamline pension transactions and enhance user experience.

     “Please be on the lookout for training sessions on the new payment platforms, we will be sending out explainer videos and scheduling sensitization sessions to guide you through the process,” she added.

    In addition to pensions, Access ARM Pensions is actively supporting customers in broader financial planning, particularly home ownership.

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    Ude pointed to recent regulatory changes allowing contributors to access 25 percent of their Retirement Savings Account (RSA) for mortgage financing.

     “This is a game-changer, as it helps address the challenge of raising an initial deposit for a home. Our customers enjoy access to our network of trusted and competent partners who offer an array of affordable housing and enable ease of transactions. I urge our HR/PDO partners to collaborate with us by giving us an easier platform to bring these valuable resources to the employees.”

    The company is also streamlining its documentation process to reduce approval turnaround times from months to weeks.

    The forum also featured insights from key industry stakeholders, including the Director General of the National Pension Commission (PenCom), Omolola Bridget Oloworaran, represented by the Acting Commissioner, Admin, PenCom, Michael Popoola.

    He reiterated PenCom’s commitment to strengthening governance in the pension industry, stressing that regulatory oversight is about protection rather than control.

  • NPF Pension, Access ARM Pensions emerge top performers in pension Fund 1 investment

    NPF Pension, Access ARM Pensions emerge top performers in pension Fund 1 investment

    NPF Pensions Limited has emerged as the top performer and clear leader of Fund 1 category of pension fund investment, delivering an impressive 38.87 per cent on return of investment for Retirement Savings Account (RSA) holders, a report has shown.

    The report entitled, “2024 Full Year Pension Funds’ Performance Report’’ released by MoneyCounsellors showed Performance Report: RSA Fund I (Aggressive Growth Fund) – Full Year 2024 (Unaudited). Fund I’s, known for its supposed high-risk, high-return profile, showed varied performances across different PFAs in 2024.

    The report stated that  the performance placed it significantly ahead of other Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs), setting the benchmark for exceptional fund management in 2024.

    Access ARM Pensions came in second, with a solid return of 21.76 per cent, followed by Veritas Glanvills Pensions at 20.14 per cent.

    Both PFAs have demonstrated consistent strategies that have outperformed the average, the report showed.

    Further analyses showed that FCMB Pensions and Leadway Pensure PFA also delivered strong results, with returns of 19.78 per cent and 18.97 per cent, respectively, placing them in the top quartile of performers.

    Average Returns

    The average return for Fund I’s across PFAs stood at 17.78 per cent, as highlighted in the chart below. This provides a benchmark for contributors to assess their PFA’s performance relative to the market. Notably, many PFAs clustered around the average, showcasing stable results.

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    Notable Mentions

    PAL Pensions and Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers achieved returns of 18.58 per cent and 18.19 per cent, just above the average, demonstrating their ability to sustain reliable performance.

    Fidelity Pension Managers, Oak Pensions, and Guaranty Trust Pension Managers followed closely, delivering returns of approximately 18%.

    Underperformers

    While the majority of PFAs delivered solid results, a few fell significantly below the average.

    Tangerine APT Pensions was the lowest performer with a return of 7.01 per cent, which may lead to concerns for contributors seeking growth while Nupemco delivered 10.68 per cent and 12.21 per cent, respectively.

    CardinalStone Pensions, formerly Radix Pensions also reported below-average returns of 14.35 per cent.

    Insights and Takeaways

    According to the report, PFAs like NPF Pensions have benefited from aggressive yet calculated investment strategies going by a review of their asset allocation over the year, capitalising on favourable market conditions to achieve high returns.

    Mid-tier performers such as PAL Pensions and Stanbic IBTC Pensions demonstrate the reliability of balanced investment approaches, appealing to contributors with moderate risk appetites. Underperforming PFAs may need to revisit their investment strategies to align with market trends and enhance returns for contributors.

    What This Means for Contributors

    For contributors in Fund I, the differences in performance highlight the importance of carefully selecting a PFA that aligns with your financial goals and risk tolerance. High performers like NPF Pensions and Access ARM Pensions provide excellent opportunities for significant growth, while lower performers may require re-evaluation of their strategies moving forward.

    Final Thoughts

    MoneyCouncellors stated further that the 2024 performances across Fund I underscores the diverse outcomes of risk-taking in pension fund management.

    As contributors, staying informed and proactive in monitoring your PFA’s performance is crucial to securing long-term financial stability. With us now in 2025, all eyes are on how PFAs adapt their strategies to navigate new market challenges and opportunities.

    For the key economic indicators, inflation (December ‘24) stood at 34.80 per cent, reflecting the ongoing economic pressures, the monetary Policy Rate (MPR) closed the year at 27.50 per cent, whilst a 1-Year Treasury Bill offered a closing yield of 28.20 per cent. The 5-Year FGN Bond (2029) and 10-Year FGN Bond (2034) provided yields of 21.19 per cent and 18.10 per cent, respectively. Amid it all, the year saw significant performance across various indices and financial instruments, while on average, pension funds maintained steady growth, providing steady, reliable returns for investors.