Best PFAs for Young Professionals in Nigeria in 2025

If you’re a young professional in Nigeria, your pension fund is probably one of the longest-term investments you’ll ever make. And in 2025, performance across PFAs has shifted noticeably — with some fund managers consistently outperforming others across RSA Funds I and II.

After reviewing PenCom’s latest performance data for multiple months in 2025, here are the PFAs delivering the strongest returns, the best digital experience, and the most stability — all key factors for young contributors who want their retirement savings to grow aggressively.

Top-Performing PFAs for Young Professionals in 2025

1. Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers

Stanbic IBTC remains Nigeria’s largest and most dominant PFA — managing ₦5.89 trillion (23.93% of all industry assets as of August 2025). Beyond size, they’ve shown strong, steady returns, especially in RSA Fund II, where they ranked third in May 2025 with 2.30%.

Their long-term average annual return of 12.5% also makes them one of the most consistent PFAs for long-term contributors.

Why young professionals like it

• Stability backed by massive AUM

• Excellent mobile and digital access

• Wide physical presence nationwide

• Strong long-term performance — perfect for early-career contributors

2. Pensions Alliance Limited (PAL Pensions)

PAL has been one of 2025’s standout performers. They topped the entire industry in February with a 2.73% average return across all funds, and maintained strong momentum with 2.25% in May.

Their RSA Fund I delivered 8.89%, and they also led RSA Fund II at 3.30% in February.

Why young professionals like it

• Strongest Fund I performance — ideal if you want higher-risk, high-growth investing

• Reliable performance across multiple months

• Solid investment strategy tailored to younger contributors

3. OAK Pensions Limited

OAK Pensions has been a surprise top performer in 2025, especially for aggressive investors. They delivered 4.94% in RSA Fund I in February and led the category again in May with 3.89%.

Why young professionals like it

• Consistent, high-growth Fund I returns

• Suitable for contributors with long-term horizons

• An aggressive fund management approach that prioritises higher returns

4. AccessARM Pensions

AccessARM is the second-largest PFA in Nigeria, managing ₦2.66 trillion (10.80%) of the industry’s total assets.

Their 2025 performance has been strong, especially in RSA Fund II, where they hit 2.36% in May (second place). They also recorded 8.01% in RSA Fund I and 5.78% in RSA Fund II in July.

Why young professionals like it

• Big, stable institution with strong governance

• Strong 2025 performance across major RSA funds

• Backed by Access Corporation, giving contributors confidence

• Good mix of digital and customer-facing services

5. FCMB Pensions Limited

FCMB Pensions has consistently appeared among the top performers in 2025. They topped RSA Fund II in May with 2.67%, and later delivered 5.68% average returns across funds in July. Their RSA Fund II further impressed with 7.29% that same month.

Why young professionals like it

• Highly competitive returns

• Digital-first approach — great for tech-savvy users

• Strong growth momentum across Funds I and II

   

  PFA Performance Summary for Young Professional Funds

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  PFA	Assets Under Management (AUM)	RSA Fund I Performance (2025)	RSA Fund II Performance (2025)	Highlights for Young Professionals
  Stanbic IBTC Pension Managers	₦5.89 trillion	Competitive	2.30% in May (3rd place)	Largest PFA, strong long-term returns, great digital tools
  PAL Pensions	Not stated	8.89% in Feb	3.30% in Feb, 2.25% in May	Best Fund I performer, excellent for high-growth investors
  OAK Pensions	Not stated	4.94% in Feb, 3.89% in May	Moderate	Aggressive fund strategy ideal for young contributors
  AccessARM Pensions	₦2.66 trillion	8.01% in July	5.78% in July, 2.36% in May	Strong performance + stability from Access Group merger
  FCMB Pensions	Not stated	Strong in July	2.67% in May, 7.29% in July	Digital-first and consistently among top performers

What Young Professionals Should Consider Before Choosing a PFA

Choosing a PFA goes beyond just looking at returns. Here are key factors you should evaluate:

1. Fund Size & Stability

Large PFAs such as Stanbic IBTC and AccessARM tend to offer more stability, better governance, and strong risk controls.

2. Digital Experience

Ensure your PFA offers:

• A functional mobile app

• Easy access to statements

• Smooth contribution tracking

3. Investment Strategy

If you’re under 40, Fund I (high-risk, high-return) may make sense — so performance in that fund matters.

4. Fees & Charges

Lower administrative fees = more money compounding for you.

5. Customer Support

A responsive PFA can save you stress when you need quick assistance or documentation.

Can You Switch Your PFA? Yes — and It’s Easy

If your current PFA hasn’t been performing well, you can switch through PenCom’s Transfer Window. Transfers are processed quarterly, and you’re free to move to a PFA that better suits your goals.

Conclusion: The Best PFAs for Young Nigerians in 2025

Based on 2025 performance data, these PFAs currently stand out:

• Stanbic IBTC – stability + long-term performance

• PAL Pensions – best for high-growth Fund I

• OAK Pensions – aggressive investors’ favourite

• AccessARM – stable, innovative, strong performance

• FCMB Pensions – digital-friendly with impressive returns

For young professionals, your pension is a marathon, not a sprint. Starting early — and choosing a well-performing PFA — can dramatically increase your retirement savings over time.

Your pension is long-term—your investments don’t have to be. Grow your savings today with regulated investment products offering competitive returns