The Pension Operators Association of Nigeria (PenOp) has successfully concluded the  inaugural  edition  of  its Induction Academy, a  targeted  training  program designed  to  provide  new  employees  in  the  pension  industry  with  essential knowledge  and  practical  skills.  The  program is  tailored to  employees  who  have joined the industry within a six month to two-year time period.
The inaugural edition covered five comprehensive modules, offering a well-rounded curriculum  that  spanned  pension  industry  fundamentals, customer  service, investment strategies, ethics, compliance, fraud awareness, and  leadership. The sessions were facilitated by seasoned industry experts, who were either serving within the industry or retired.
The CEO of PenOp, Oguche Agudah, underscored the importance of engagements like this to the participants. He stressed that the industry was looking to tap their experiences from other industries, but was also keen to ensure that they understood the history, and ethos of the industry.
Adaobi  Okoye, Head  of  People  &  Training  at  PenOp, kicked  off  the  event, underscoring  the  academy’s  primary  goal:  to  equip  participants  with  a  deep understanding of the intricacies of the pension sector.
She introduced a diverse group of expert facilitators who delivered dynamic, engaging content focused on professional growth and practical application.
Over the course of the four-day program, participants delved into critical topics, which included; Pension  Fund  Investment  Strategies  &  Risk  Management.  This  session  explored investment products, financial markets, and how to manage risk effectively within pension portfolios.
Next was Contributions, Benefits, and Data Management. This module emphasized the  importance  of  accurate  record-keeping  and  the  regulatory  frameworks  that govern pension administration.
Followed  by  Compliance  and  Fraud  Awareness.  This  session  focused  on  the importance of maintaining integrity, professionalism, and vigilance to detect and prevent fraud within the pension industry.
Lastly, it  covered  Customer  Service  &  Ethical  Leadership  where  the  facilitator shared best practices for fostering strong client relationships and emphasized the crucial role ethics play in effective leadership.
The program attracted 41 participants, who actively engaged in case studies, real-life scenarios, and interactive discussions. The academy provided a solid foundation for new employees, empowering them with valuable insights into customer service, risk management, and ethical leadership. Upon completing the program, participants were awarded certifications, signaling their  readiness  to  make  significant  contributions  to  the  industry.
This  will  be  a continuous program that will seek to induct new entrants into the pension industry on an ongoing basis.
About PenOp
PenOp serves as the umbrella organisation for licensed Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) and Pension Fund Custodians (PFCs) in Nigeria, advocating for best practices and advancing the development of the nation’s pension industry.
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