The Lagos State Head of Service, Bode Agoro, recently issued a cautionary message to retirees of the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB) during a retirement ceremony held in Ikeja. With the experience of transitioning to retirement, Agoro stressed the importance of exercising diligence when investing their financial benefits. He urged the retirees to be wary of fraudulent schemes that often target vulnerable individuals seeking to invest their savings. Agoro emphasized the necessity of conducting thorough research before committing to any business venture, advising them to “look before you leap” to safeguard their financial future. This highlights the critical need for awareness and informed decision-making for retirees navigating their post-work life.
During the retirement ceremony, Agoro also highlighted the significance of maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle post-retirement. He encouraged retirees to avoid a sedentary lifestyle by engaging in daily exercise routines, noting that even minimal physical activity is beneficial. Diet was another focal point of his advice, underscoring the importance of nutrition and recommending the avoidance of fizzy drinks. To facilitate a more active lifestyle among retirees, the Head of Service announced the establishment of wellness and recreation centers in all local government areas, equipped to promote physical engagement and overall well-being. This initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at ensuring that retirees remain active contributors to society and do not succumb to the inactivity that often accompanies retirement.
In addition to promoting wellness, Agoro introduced various skill acquisition programs tailored for retirees, including soap-making and fisheries. These programs are designed to provide participants with practical skills that can lead to entrepreneurial opportunities. Those who participate in the soap-making initiative will receive starter kits to help launch their ventures, demonstrating a commitment to empowering retirees to achieve continued success beyond their formal careers. Agoro’s assertion that retirees can still accomplish significant achievements resonates strongly with the need for a positive outlook on life after retirement, particularly in sectors like fisheries, which have become increasingly lucrative.
To further enhance the welfare of retirees, Agoro revealed a new initiative where the Lagos State Post Service Department will send birthday gifts to retirees starting next year. This thoughtful gesture aims to create a sense of community and promote a positive atmosphere for those transitioning into their retirements. Through such initiatives, the government reiterates its commitment to supporting its retirees, fostering a sense of belonging, and ensuring they feel valued for their prior contributions to the workforce.
Meanwhile, Moronke Azeez, the Executive Secretary of LASTVEB, also addressed the retirees, encouraging them to remain engaged both mentally and physically. She emphasized that keeping busy can prevent the negative effects of aging and isolation, encouraging retirees to participate in meaningful activities or join associations to maintain their social connections. Azeez’s speech provided a heartfelt acknowledgment of the retirees’ dedication to their roles, labeling the ceremony as a modest expression of gratitude for their years of service. She also included a prayer for their continued health and happiness, reinforcing the community spirit among the retirees.
Finally, addressing concerns about pension disbursement, Azeez reassured the retirees of the government’s dedication to improving their welfare, specifically with faster processing of pension payments. She advised the retirees to ensure their paperwork is completed to avoid delays, highlighting the proactive measures being taken by Lagos State to ensure that retirees receive their benefits in a timely manner. This focus on efficiency in pension disbursement reflects a broader commitment to honoring those who dedicated their careers to public service, ensuring that they can enjoy a dignified and secure retirement. Together, the messages from Agoro and Azeez paint a picture of a supportive framework designed to empower retirees, reminding them that their contributions continue to hold value within the community, even after they leave their formal jobs.
