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.
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.
Stability backed by massive AUM
Excellent mobile and digital access
Wide physical presence nationwide
Strong long-term performance — perfect for early-career contributors
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.
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
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%.
Consistent, high-growth Fund I returns
Suitable for contributors with long-term horizons
An aggressive fund management approach that prioritises higher returns
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.
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
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.
Highly competitive returns
Digital-first approach — great for tech-savvy users
Strong growth momentum across Funds I and II
| 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 |
Choosing a PFA goes beyond just looking at returns. Here are key factors you should evaluate:
Large PFAs such as Stanbic IBTC and AccessARM tend to offer more stability, better governance, and strong risk controls.
Ensure your PFA offers:
A functional mobile app
Easy access to statements
Smooth contribution tracking
If you’re under 40, Fund I (high-risk, high-return) may make sense — so performance in that fund matters.
Lower administrative fees = more money compounding for you.
A responsive PFA can save you stress when you need quick assistance or documentation.
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.
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