By Mackie M. Jalloh
The National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) remain one of Sierra Leone’s most consequential public institutions, carrying the critical responsibility of protecting workers and retirees while contributing to national economic stability. In a country where social protection is central to inclusive development, NASSIT’s role cannot be overstated. Under the leadership of its Director General, Dr. Mohamed Fuad Daboh, the institution has entered a phase marked by renewed confidence, strategic focus, and visible reforms aimed at strengthening its mandate and public credibility.
As Sierra Leone’s statutory social security institution, NASSIT is tasked with providing income security in cases of old age, invalidity, and survivorship. This responsibility affects hundreds of thousands of contributors and beneficiaries nationwide. In recent years, the Trust has pursued reforms designed to modernize its operations and ensure long-term sustainability. These efforts reflect a leadership approach that recognizes social security not only as a technical system of contributions and benefits, but as a vital social contract between the state and its workforce.
Since assuming office, Dr. Daboh has prioritized institutional discipline, transparency, and innovation. His leadership has been defined by a strong emphasis on corporate governance, accountability, and stakeholder engagement. Internally, systems and processes have been reviewed and strengthened to improve efficiency, while externally, the institution has adopted a more open and responsive posture toward contributors, employers, and the general public.
One of the most significant focus areas under Dr. Daboh’s stewardship has been the expansion of coverage and improved compliance. Through sustained engagement with employers and workers across both the public and private sectors, NASSIT has intensified registration drives and compliance monitoring. These efforts have helped bring more workers into the social security system, extending protection to individuals who might otherwise remain vulnerable, particularly in an economy where informal employment remains widespread.
Improving service delivery to pensioners and beneficiaries has also been central to the reform agenda. Payment processes have been streamlined, operational bottlenecks reduced, and customer service mechanisms strengthened to ensure timely and dignified treatment of retirees. For many pensioners, NASSIT payments are their primary source of income, making efficiency and reliability not just administrative goals, but moral imperatives. Dr. Daboh has consistently stressed that contributors deserve prompt and respectful service after decades of work and contribution.
Beyond benefit payments, NASSIT’s role as an institutional investor has expanded under the current leadership. The Trust’s growing investment portfolio, spanning real estate, finance, and other productive sectors, has positioned it as a key driver of national development. These investments have supported job creation, infrastructure growth, and economic activity, while safeguarding contributors’ funds. Dr. Daboh has maintained a cautious but forward-looking investment philosophy, emphasizing prudence, risk management, and long-term value.
Public trust and institutional credibility have been further strengthened through improved communication and transparency. NASSIT has increased public engagement, providing clearer information on contribution requirements, benefits, and procedures. This openness has helped address misconceptions surrounding social security and has encouraged greater participation, particularly among younger workers who often underestimate the importance of long-term income protection.
Dr. Daboh has also emerged as a strong advocate for social security beyond the confines of NASSIT’s administrative functions. He has consistently articulated the importance of social protection as a pillar of national resilience, especially during periods of economic uncertainty. His advocacy underscores the idea that a strong social security system stabilizes households, reduces poverty in old age, and contributes to broader social cohesion.
Internally, staff development and professionalism have received renewed attention. Through targeted training, system upgrades, and performance management reforms, NASSIT’s workforce has been better equipped to deliver services with integrity, efficiency, and accountability. This internal strengthening has been essential in sustaining the institution’s reform momentum.
Today, NASSIT stands not merely as a custodian of pensions, but as a symbol of responsible governance and social commitment. The steady reforms introduced under Dr. Mohamed Fuad Daboh have reinforced the Trust’s relevance in the daily lives of Sierra Leoneans and enhanced confidence in the social security system.
As Sierra Leone continues to pursue inclusive growth and stronger social protection frameworks, NASSIT’s role remains indispensable. With focused leadership, institutional discipline, and a people-centered vision, the Trust under DG Daboh is steadily ensuring that workers’ contributions today translate into security, stability, and dignity in the years ahead.
