Impact of Retirement Benefits on the Performance of Clergy in Methodist Church Nigeria, Kaduna Archdiocese

The study examined the effect of Retirement Benefits on the Performance of Clergy in the Methodist Church, Nigeria, Kaduna Archdiocese. The study specifically explored how the retirement benefits influence the job satisfaction, well-being, and dedication of clergy in this Archdiocese. The study primarily used quantitative methods to collect data from clergy members in the Kaduna Archdiocese. The study's total population consists of 422 clergy members. Taro Yamane's formula was used to determine a sample size of 293 for the study. Data was collected from the respondents using a well-structured questionnaire. Findings reveal that retirement benefits significantly enhance clergy welfare, financial stability, and psychological well-being, leading to improved post-retirement engagement in religious and community activities. Clergy members with access to pension schemes and post-retirement support programs reported higher levels of life satisfaction and continued service within the church organizations. Conversely, denominations without formalized retirement plans experienced greater financial hardship, stress, and dependency among retired clergy. The study concludes that inadequate retirement benefits negatively impact clergy welfare and post-retirement job performance, potentially affecting overall church growth and its stability. It recommends that religious institutions develop sustainable pension schemes, integrate financial literacy programs for clergy, and collaborate with national pension regulatory bodies to ensure long-term security. Establishing church-led retirement funds and fostering a culture of saving among clergy are also suggested as critical measures to address post-retirement vulnerabilities.