The National Pension Commission (PenCom), in collaboration with Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs), is set to launch a self-service online data recapture application known as the Data Recapture Self-Service Platform (PENCAP) on 1 February 2026, in a move aimed at accelerating pension data validation and improving service delivery across the industry.
PENCAP allows eligible Retirement Savings Account (RSA) holders to update and validate their personal records remotely, without the need to physically visit their PFA offices. The platform specifically targets RSA holders who enrolled in the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) on or before 1 July 2019 and are yet to complete the mandatory data recapture exercise.
PenCom said the initiative represents a significant step in strengthening data integrity, enhancing operational efficiency and deepening the use of digital solutions in Nigeria’s pension administration.
Closing Legacy Data Gaps
Accurate and up-to-date contributor data is critical to the effective administration of retirement savings under the CPS. However, PenCom noted that legacy records, incomplete documentation and inconsistencies in contributor information have, over time, created challenges during verification and benefit processing.
By introducing PENCAP, the Commission aims to provide contributors with a secure, convenient and accessible channel to recapture their data. The improved quality of contributor records across PFAs is expected to translate into faster benefit processing, smoother verification exercises and an overall improved experience for RSA holders.
Background to the Data Recapture Exercise
The Data Recapture Exercise (DRE) began in August 2019 for both active contributors and retirees, in line with the Federal Government’s directive requiring all data-generating organisations to harmonise their databases with the National Identity Management Commission (NIMC).
To support this objective, PenCom designed and deployed the Enhanced Contributor Registration System (ECRS), which is integrated with the NIMC database. The system ensures the uniqueness of individuals registering under the CPS and existing RSA holders who are yet to recapture, using the National Identification Number (NIN) as a unique identifier.
Despite these measures, the requirement for contributors to physically visit their PFAs limited participation, leaving a significant number of eligible RSA holders unrecaptured several years after the exercise commenced. PenCom believes the introduction of a self-service option will significantly improve participation.
How PENCAP Works
The recapture process is fully digital and can be completed using a mobile phone, computer or any device equipped with a camera and internet access. RSA holders can access the platform via https://pensionrecap.pencom.gov.ng/ and create a secure profile using a personal email address.
Contributors are required to complete the online Data Recapture Form and upload relevant supporting documents where necessary. The process also includes biometric verification through live facial capture, as well as a digital signature to authenticate submissions.
Processing and Notifications
Once an application is submitted, the contributor’s PFA reviews the request and takes appropriate action within the stipulated processing timeline. RSA holders receive automated email notifications acknowledging receipt of their application and providing updates on approval or rejection, including reasons where applicable. This process, PenCom said, ensures transparency, accountability and continuous communication.
Importance of Compliance
PenCom emphasised that RSA holders who enrolled on or before 1 July 2019 and have not completed data recapture are required to take advantage of the online platform to update their records. Completion of the exercise is mandatory for migrating contributor data onto the ECRS, which uniquely identifies RSA holders using their NIN.
Failure to complete data recapture will restrict access to key pension-related services, including participation in the Retiree Enrolment and Verification Exercise, processing of retirement benefits, withdrawal for temporary job loss, RSA transfers between PFAs and the use of RSA balances as equity contributions for residential mortgages.
Aligning with Strategic Objectives
The deployment of PENCAP aligns with PenCom’s broader commitment to innovation, transparency and efficiency within Nigeria’s pension industry. By leveraging technology to simplify compliance and improve access to pension services, the Commission continues to strengthen confidence in the Contributory Pension Scheme.
PenCom added that RSA holders who prefer physical recapture can still visit PFA branches, noting that PENCAP is designed to complement existing service channels rather than replace them.
PenCom will launch the PENCAP self-service platform on February 1, 2026, enabling eligible RSA holders to recapture pension data online, improve verification, and accelerate access to retirement benefits.
PenCom introduces PENCAP, a self-service online platform launching February 1, 2026, to help RSA holders update pension records remotely, improve data integrity and speed up benefit processing.
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