The National Pensions Regulatory Authority (NPRA) has issued a stern directive to employers nationwide, demanding the immediate registration and remittance of Tier 2 pension contributions for their workers or risk prosecution. Speaking at a media briefing in Accra on April 9, 2026, the Authority emphasised that non-compliance with the National Pensions Act, 2008 (Act 766), constitutes a criminal offence that undermines employees’ retirement security.
Delivering remarks on behalf of the Chief Executive Officer, Deputy CEO Victor Azuma Mejida disclosed that while some employers have failed to establish Tier 2 occupational pension schemes, others deduct contributions from salaries but neglect to forward them to trustees. “Such violations of workers’ rights cannot be tolerated. Employers must desist or face legal action,” the Authority cautioned. Stressing the seriousness of defaulting on pension obligations, the regulator warned that failure to remit contributions could jeopardise employees’ future livelihoods. “Refusal to pay these contributions spells disaster for the worker,” the statement underscored.
As part of intensified enforcement efforts, NPRA disclosed that it prosecuted 11 non-compliant employers in 2025 and recovered more than GH¢27 million—representing about 30 percent of an estimated GH¢91 million in outstanding contributions. The Authority has deployed compliance officers nationwide to inspect company records, issue demand notices and pursue legal action where necessary. Employers in default are also subject to a 3 per cent monthly compounding penalty on unpaid contributions.
To strengthen its enforcement regime, NPRA has trained 44 prosecutors across the country and is stepping up inspections in line with its statutory mandate. “It is an offence… to default in payment of pension contributions of your staff,” the Authority warned, adding that sanctions will be strictly applied.
Under Section 3 of Act 766, all employers, regardless of size, are required to enrol workers in a Tier 2 occupational pension scheme and ensure timely payment of contributions, with the Authority emphasising that failure to even register a scheme constitutes a breach of the law.
NPRA is also calling on the media and the public to support its compliance drive by exposing defaulting employers, urging collaboration to safeguard the pension rights of Ghanaian workers. The Authority maintained that pensions remain a critical pillar of financial security and dignity for workers, reaffirming its commitment to enforcing compliance and protecting retirement income across the country.
Source: Daniel Oduro-Mensah
