If you’re a Nigerian living abroad and considering retirement in Nigeria, these tips can help guide your planning process.
1. Participate in Nigeria’s Pension Scheme
One challenge faced by Nigerians in the diaspora is the requirement to contribute to their resident country’s pension fund for 30 to 35 years to qualify for pension payments at retirement. Many are unable to meet this requirement if they move abroad in their 30s or later.
To secure pension payments upon your return, consider contributing to the Nigerian pension scheme while living abroad. You can open a Retirement Savings Account with a reputable Pension Fund Administrator (PFA) in Nigeria and make regular voluntary contributions. This approach allows you to save for retirement while maintaining financial ties to Nigeria.
When selecting a PFA, research their performance history, customer service, and the availability of digital access options that facilitate account management from abroad. Set up automatic transfers on a quarterly or bi-annual basis to ensure consistent contributions, regardless of your location.
2. Invest Strategically In Nigerian Real Estate
Real estate can offer significant potential for retirement planning in Nigeria, but it requires thorough research and professional assistance.
Begin by clearly defining your investment goals, whether they are for rental income, capital appreciation, or personal use upon your return. Explore various locations based on your budget and objectives, considering both established areas with proven track records and emerging locations with growth potential.
Engage reputable real estate professionals, legal advisors, and local partners to simplify the investment process. You may also consider joining real estate investment groups or forming partnerships with trusted family members or friends, especially if managing properties directly from abroad seems challenging.
3. Create A Diversified Investment Portfolio
Building a retirement portfolio that balances investments between Nigeria and your country of residence can help spread risk and maximise potential returns.
Beyond real estate and pension contributions, explore other investment vehicles in Nigeria, such as mutual funds, stocks, and government bonds that can be managed remotely. Many Nigerian financial institutions now offer digital platforms that allow diaspora investors to monitor and manage their investments from anywhere in the world.
Regularly review your investment portfolio to ensure that it aligns with your retirement goals and risk tolerance. Consider consulting financial advisors who specialize in cross-border investments and understand the tax implications in both Nigeria and your country of residence. Additionally, maintain an emergency fund in both locations to cover unexpected expenses without disrupting your long-term investment strategy.
Finally, stay informed about economic trends, policy changes, and investment opportunities in Nigeria through reliable news sources and professional networks.
Action Steps
Whether you are uncertain about where you plan to retire or have already decided on Nigeria as your destination, developing a retirement strategy is crucial.
Feel free to book a call with me so we can discuss your options and what you need to plan for your future.