The National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) experienced a significant leadership transition on Tuesday, August 11, 2026, as outgoing Director General Mohamed Fuaad Daboh formally handed over the reins of the institution to the newly appointed Director General, Chernor Mamoud Jalloh. This key ceremony, marking a new chapter for the social security provider, was held at the NASSIT headquarters, prominently located on Walpole Street in Freetown. The event was not solely focused on the Director General's role; it also saw a key change in the leadership of the Board, with outgoing Board Chairperson Madam Isata Marah transferring her responsibilities to the incoming Board Chairperson, Madam Janneh Jabati. The formal handover showed a commitment to continuity and strategic evolution within the organization, which plays a vital role in the social welfare system of Sierra Leone.
During the event, Mohamed Fuaad Daboh reflected deeply on the institution's fundamental mission and the profound impact it has on the lives of ordinary citizens. He articulated a powerful reminder of NASSIT's purpose, stating, "Behind every contribution is a worker’s hope and a family’s future. Serve every contributor with respect and every pensioner with compassion." This statement encapsulated the human-centric philosophy that guided his tenure. Following this, Chernor Mamoud Jalloh, in his inaugural remarks, emphasized the critical importance of public trust in the organization, a cornerstone for any social security institution. "Above all, they expect to be able to trust this institution," Jalloh remarked, adding a pointed clarification, "That is why it is called a trust." His words noted the inherent responsibility that comes with managing the financial security of the nation's workforce and retirees.
Daboh's Seven-Year Tenure
Mohamed Fuaad Daboh concluded a distinguished seven-year tenure in office as Director General, having been initially appointed to lead the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) by His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio in May 2018. Throughout his administration, Mr. Daboh stated that his leadership was firmly anchored in pursuing a full transformation agenda. This agenda was meticulously crafted around core principles designed to enhance the institution's efficacy and public perception. These guiding principles included good governance, ensuring ethical and transparent decision-making; financial prudence, safeguarding the trust's assets and investments; innovation, fostering new approaches and solutions; operational efficiency, streamlining processes to better serve beneficiaries; transparency, maintaining openness in all dealings; and accountability, taking responsibility for outcomes. He reiterated the institution's core mission, stating, "Behind every contribution is a worker’s hope and a family’s future. Serve every contributor with respect and every pensioner with compassion." This ethos consistently guided his strategic initiatives.
Under his astute guidance, NASSIT embarked on several key initiatives aimed at modernizing its operations and expanding its reach. A significant achievement was the design of a strong Information and Communications Technology (ICT) transformation program, specifically aimed at modernizing the organization's operations and improving service delivery through digital means. Recognizing the vast segment of the population not covered by traditional social security, his administration diligently developed a draft bill specifically intended to extend social security protection to workers within the informal sector, a key step towards inclusive social protection. In a concerted effort to enhance accessibility and service delivery across the nation, NASSIT also significantly expanded its physical presence. This expansion involved the establishment of new district offices in various regions, including the opening of advanced facilities in strategic locations such as Bo and Port Loko. These efforts collectively aimed to bring NASSIT's services closer to its contributors and pensioners, reinforcing its national footprint.
New Leadership's Vision
Chernor Mamoud Jalloh, the new Director General of the National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT), clearly outlined his commitments for the institution's future, pledging to lead with a steadfast dedication to integrity, professionalism, accountability, efficiency, and prudent management. These principles, he articulated, would form the bedrock of his leadership style and decision-making processes. Jalloh further emphasized the public's inherent expectation of reliability and trustworthiness from an organization entrusted with their financial future. "Above all, they expect to be able to trust this institution," Jalloh remarked, showing the critical nature of this public confidence, adding, "That is why it is called a trust." He stressed that maintaining and strengthening this trust would be a central focus of his administration.
Jalloh stated that his immediate priority involves a key period of observation and intensive learning. He articulated a measured approach, indicating his intention to listen attentively to all stakeholders, including staff, contributors, and pensioners, to gain a full understanding of NASSIT's intricate operations. This initial phase will also involve a thorough assessment of the institution's current challenges and existing strengths. He emphasized that this deliberate and well-informed approach is essential before implementing any significant decisions or charting new strategic directions for the trust. This methodology aims to ensure a smooth, well-considered transition and to establish a strong strategic framework for NASSIT's future growth and stability.
Both the government of Sierra Leone and NASSIT are currently pursuing a series of full reforms. These initiatives are specifically designed to strengthen the administration of social security across the nation and to significantly improve the benefits provided to pensioners, ensuring their financial well-being. These ongoing efforts reflect a broader, concerted push to enhance the overall stability, effectiveness, and sustainability of the social security system for all its beneficiaries, aligning with national development goals.
Context and Support
Sierra Leone holds a distinguished position on the continental stage, occupying the vice-presidency within the Association of Social Security Administrations of Africa. This role notes its active participation and influence in broader African social security discussions and policy-making. The National Social Security and Insurance Trust (NASSIT) itself boasts a long-standing presence and operational history in the country, having commenced its operations in 2001. Since its inception, NASSIT has been an integral part of Sierra Leone’s social welfare system, providing key safety nets for workers and retirees.
The recent leadership transition also involved the outgoing Board Chairperson, Madam Isata Marah, who assumed her office in March 2026. Madam Marah is departing NASSIT to take on a new, significant responsibility at the Ministry of Finance, indicating a continued contribution to public service at a high level. Her successor, Madam Janneh Jabati, brings a wealth of relevant experience to her new role, having previously served at the Ministry of Finance. This background suggests a valuable continuity of financial expertise and institutional knowledge within the leadership of NASSIT. During the handover ceremony, the Minister of Employment, Labour and Social Security, Mohamed Rahman Swarray, publicly pledged the Ministry’s unwavering and continued support to both the new Board and the Management of NASSIT. This commitment from the Ministry shows the government's dedication to ensuring the continued success and stability of the national social security institution. The collective experience and the pledged governmental support are expected to provide a strong foundation for the new leadership team as they navigate the complexities and opportunities ahead for NASSIT.