CrusaderSterling Pensions Limited, a prominent player in the Nigerian pension sector, has received a significant boost to its credibility and standing with an upgraded rating from Agusto & Co., a leading Pan-African credit rating agency. The company’s rating has been elevated to AA-(PFM) from A+(PFM), signifying a notable improvement in its financial strength and operational efficiency. This upgrade underscores CrusaderSterling’s robust investment capabilities, effective pension administration practices, and sound risk management framework. The enhanced rating not only validates the effectiveness of the company’s strategic initiatives but also reinforces its commitment to operational excellence and a client-centric approach.
The upgrade comes on the heels of several key milestones achieved by CrusaderSterling. Just 14 months prior, the company had earned an A+(PFM) rating, solidifying its position as a leading pension fund administrator (PFA). This initial A+ rating was a landmark achievement in itself, as CrusaderSterling was the first PFA to receive such a rating from Agusto & Co. back in 2018. The rapid progression from A+ to AA- reflects the company’s consistent efforts to enhance its operations, strengthen its financial position, and improve service delivery to its clients. This upward trajectory highlights CrusaderSterling’s commitment to continuous improvement and its dedication to maintaining a leading position in the pension industry.
CrusaderSterling attributes its success to a combination of factors, including substantial investments in automation, a seasoned team of professionals, and well-defined investment and risk management frameworks. The company has strategically invested in automating key processes related to contributions management and benefits administration, streamlining operations and improving efficiency. This focus on automation has allowed CrusaderSterling to provide seamless and timely services to its clients, ensuring accurate and efficient management of their pension contributions and benefits. Furthermore, the company’s experienced team of professionals brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the table, contributing to the company’s strong performance and sound decision-making. These professionals are supported by robust investment and risk management frameworks that guide the company’s investment strategies and mitigate potential risks, ensuring the long-term security and growth of pension funds.
The AA-(PFM) rating serves as a testament to CrusaderSterling’s ongoing commitment to delivering value through innovation and efficiency. It recognizes the company’s dedication to providing high-quality services and maintaining a secure and reliable platform for managing pension funds. The rating also acknowledges the company’s proactive approach to adopting industry best practices and its focus on continuous improvement. By embracing innovation and leveraging technology, CrusaderSterling has positioned itself as a leader in the pension industry, setting a benchmark for other PFAs to emulate.
Beyond the financial and operational aspects, CrusaderSterling’s commitment to quality and security is further evidenced by its attainment of ISO 9001:2015 (Quality Management Systems) and ISO 27001:2022 (Information Security Management Systems) certifications in 2024. These certifications demonstrate the company’s adherence to internationally recognized standards for quality management and information security. The ISO 9001:2015 certification underscores CrusaderSterling’s dedication to providing high-quality services that meet customer expectations and regulatory requirements. The ISO 27001:2022 certification, on the other hand, highlights the company’s commitment to protecting sensitive information and maintaining a secure environment for managing pension funds. These certifications reinforce CrusaderSterling’s capacity to provide secure, quality, and sustainable services through its digital channels, further enhancing its reputation as a trusted and reliable PFA.
In conclusion, CrusaderSterling Pensions Limited’s upgrade to AA-(PFM) by Agusto & Co. represents a significant milestone for the company. The upgrade reflects the company’s strong financial performance, robust operational capabilities, and unwavering commitment to client satisfaction. By investing in automation, building a strong team of professionals, and implementing robust risk management frameworks, CrusaderSterling has positioned itself as a leader in the Nigerian pension industry. The company’s commitment to quality and security is further reinforced by its ISO certifications. This upward trajectory underscores CrusaderSterling’s dedication to continuous improvement and its ambition to remain at the forefront of the pension sector, providing secure, efficient, and reliable services to its clients.
