By Mackie M. Jalloh
In the heart of Sierra Leone’s evolving socio-economic landscape, one institution has steadily become a beacon of reform, accountability, and progress — the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT). Under the dynamic leadership of Director-General Mohamed Fuaad Daboh, NASSIT has moved beyond being a mere pension fund to a robust national institution driving social protection, investment, and national development.
When Mohamed Fuaad Daboh took over as Director-General, he inherited a system burdened with public skepticism and bureaucratic bottlenecks. But through strategic reforms, digital innovation, and a people-centered approach, he has transformed NASSIT into one of the most credible and transparent public institutions in Sierra Leone.
At the core of Daboh’s leadership philosophy is accountability. He believes that contributors’ confidence must be earned through transparency in fund management and tangible benefits. Under his stewardship, NASSIT has implemented strong auditing systems, enhanced public reporting mechanisms, and engaged with the public more openly about the institution’s activities.
Today, contributors can access real-time updates on their contributions, track their benefits, and lodge complaints through digital platforms — a transformation that has not only increased efficiency but also restored trust in the system.
NASSIT’s recent digital transformation is a hallmark of Daboh’s forward-thinking leadership. The rollout of the NASSIT Biometric Registration System, Online Benefit Tracking Portal, and Digital Contribution Payments has revolutionized how citizens interact with the institution.
No longer must retirees endure long queues or travel miles to access services — with digital tools, the process is faster, safer, and more transparent. The automation of benefit processing has also significantly reduced delays, ensuring that pensioners receive their entitlements promptly.
Recognizing that social protection should not be limited to the formal sector, Director-General Daboh has championed initiatives aimed at extending NASSIT’s coverage to the informal workforce — a segment that constitutes over 80% of Sierra Leone’s labor market.
Through awareness campaigns, stakeholder engagement, and innovative contribution models, NASSIT is now enrolling traders, farmers, artisans, and small business owners under voluntary and flexible schemes — ensuring that every Sierra Leonean, regardless of employment type, has access to social protection.
This inclusive approach aligns with President Julius Maada Bio’s vision of human capital development and inclusive growth, where no citizen is left behind.
Beyond its core pension mandate, NASSIT has positioned itself as a major investor in national development. Under Daboh’s leadership, the institution has strengthened its investment arm to finance strategic sectors such as housing, hospitality, infrastructure, and technology.
Projects like the New Freetown Seaside Housing Estate, Kissy Pensioners’ Village, and partnerships with the Ministry of Lands and Housing demonstrate NASSIT’s commitment to not only providing retirement benefits but also improving livelihoods and stimulating economic activity.
Additionally, the institution’s stake in the Bintumani Hotel and other major ventures continues to generate sustainable income, reinforcing NASSIT’s financial stability and long-term viability.
Those who work with Mohamed Fuaad Daboh describe him as a visionary, compassionate, and results-oriented leader. His management approach is anchored on teamwork, innovation, and accountability. He prioritizes staff welfare, continuous capacity building, and open communication — ensuring that the NASSIT workforce remains motivated and equipped to deliver excellence.
Daboh’s engagement with the public is equally remarkable. He frequently visits regional offices, holds dialogues with pensioners, and participates in community outreach programs, reflecting his commitment to making NASSIT accessible and responsive to citizens’ needs.
Today, NASSIT stands as one of Sierra Leone’s most trusted institutions — a far cry from the public mistrust of years past. This transformation is a direct result of Mohamed Fuaad Daboh’s steadfast leadership, policy innovation, and his belief that social security is a right, not a privilege.
His vision is clear: to build a modern, transparent, and inclusive social security system that protects every Sierra Leonean, strengthens the economy, and supports the nation’s development goals.
As NASSIT continues to expand its reach and deepen its impact, one thing is certain — under Mohamed Fuaad Daboh’s leadership, the institution is not just managing funds; it is securing futures, empowering lives, and building a stronger Sierra Leone.
