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    Pensions & Financial Security

    What happens if football ends tomorrow?

    Most careers end without warning. A pension is the difference between building the life you want and starting again at 33.

    Ask a pension question
    8 yrs
    Average pro career
    40 yrs
    In retirement
    40%
    Face hardship post-career
    3×
    Starting a decade earlier
    Your career, mapped

    Five decisions that shape your retirement.

    Small, consistent choices now become life-changing outcomes later.

    1. 1Age 17–20

      First contract

      The moment your paycheque starts, so should your pension. Even 5% put away now compounds for 40 years.

    2. 2Age 20–30

      Peak earning years

      Automate monthly contributions. Match every naira you spend on cars with a naira for retirement.

    3. 3Age 30–35

      Late career

      Increase contributions, diversify into property and index funds. Prepare a career transition plan.

    4. 4Retirement

      The next 40 years

      Football ends at 35. You'll live to 75+. Your pension is the difference between comfort and hardship.

    5. 5Legacy

      Financial security for family

      A properly funded pension protects your parents, spouse and children — long after the final whistle.

    Player story
    "I wish someone had explained pensions to me when I signed my first contract. I would have started at 18, not 28."
    Retired NPFL midfielder · 14-year professional career
    Learn & download
    Guide

    Pension basics for footballers

    A short, plain-language explainer on how pension schemes work.

    Regulator

    PenCom — National Pension Commission

    The official regulator of pension funds. Verify any advisor before signing anything.

    Insurance

    Career-ending injury cover

    Protect your income if injury cuts your career short.

    Investment

    Beyond the pension: diversifying

    Property, index funds, and business — how to spread risk sensibly.

    PFWADA Pension Starter Pack (2026)

    PDF · 1.2 MB

    Career Transition Checklist

    PDF · 480 KB

    Common questions

    Take the first step

    Not sure where to start?

    Send us your question. We will explain the basics in plain language and point you to regulated, independent advice. We never sell or manage funds.

    Ask PFWADA