‘How to build effective social security’
Public Leadership Credential candidate at Harvard Kennedy School of Government, Rotimi Rhodes-Vivour, has outlined steps for a robust and inclusive social security system. Rhodes-Vivour, in a statement, said Nigeria, faces
Public Leadership Credential candidate at Harvard Kennedy School of Government, Rotimi Rhodes-Vivour, has outlined steps for a robust and inclusive social security system.
Rhodes-Vivour, in a statement, said Nigeria, faces challenges in safeguarding citizens welfare, particularly in the area of social protection.
He said a functional social security is critical to protecting vulnerable groups and promoting economic stability, adding the starting point is for government to assess the demographic structure, economic realities and inequality levels, noting that such an exercise would identify critical gaps.
He called for a legal framework to guide the operation, covering eligibility, benefits, funding and regulation, saying an independent body should manage the system with transparency and accountability.
Rhodes-Vivour underscored importance of universal health coverage, saying access to quality healthcare is a central pillar of any social security framework.
He urged government to ensure that all Nigerians can access medical services without financial hardship through a mix of public and private sector support.
On employment, he advocated the introduction of unemployment benefits to cushion the effect of job losses and provide temporary relief for affected individuals.
He further called for reforms in the pension system to guarantee stable income for retirees, stressing the need to widen participation, improve investment strategies and eliminate inefficiencies.
Highlighting the plight of vulnerable groups, he urged targeted interventions for the elderly, children and persons with disabilities, including cash transfers, food support and disability benefits.
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Rhodes-Vivour also identified financial inclusion as key to the success of any social security system, noting that access to banking and insurance services would enable citizens to prepare for emergencies, healthcare needs and retirement.
He advised collaboration with financial institutions to expand access.
He emphasised the need for sustained public education and awareness to ensure citizens understand their rights and how to benefit from social protection programmes.
On funding, he recommended sustainable models such as payroll taxes,
employer-employee contributions and public-private partnerships.
He added that continuous evaluation and policy adjustments are necessary to ensure the system remains responsive to changing socio-economic realities.
“With the right planning and implementation, Nigeria can build a social security system that protects its people and supports national development,” he said.
