The Lagos State Government has advised 341 officers nearing retirement from the Unified Local Government Service to begin making proper plans for life after their years in active employment.
The advice was given during a pre-retirement programme organised by the Office of Local Government Establishments and Training (OLGE&T) for workers approaching the end of their careers.
The training, held at the Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye Local Council Development Area Secretariat in Ilupeju, was themed, “Beyond Retirement: Preparing for a Healthy, Purposeful and Prosperous Chapter.”
Speaking at the event, the Lagos State Head of Service, Olabode Agoro, who was represented by Wasiu Olayinka, said early preparation was essential for a smooth transition from public service into retirement.
He encouraged the retiring officers to pay greater attention to their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing as they prepare to leave active service.
Agoro advised them to maintain healthy lifestyles, attend regular medical examinations and engage in activities that would support their overall wellbeing.
He noted that retirement should not simply mean leaving employment, but should also provide an opportunity to begin a fulfilling and productive phase of life.
The Head of Service further urged workers who are still some years away from retirement to start making plans for their post-service lives instead of waiting until their final days in office.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary of OLGE&T, Toyin Ogunlana, acknowledged the contributions of the retiring officers to the public service and the development of communities across Lagos State.
She said leaving government employment should not be viewed as the end of a person’s usefulness or productivity.
According to Ogunlana, retirement can provide an opportunity for workers to explore new interests, acquire additional skills, pursue investments, mentor younger people, contribute to their communities and devote more time to their families.
She explained that the pre-retirement programme was part of the government’s efforts to help its workforce prepare adequately for the transition out of public service.
Ogunlana encouraged the participants to begin considering their plans for the next stage of their lives while they were still employed.
She stressed that effective retirement planning should start well before an officer reaches the official retirement date.
The permanent secretary urged the retiring workers to approach the transition with confidence and purpose, while using their experience and skills to remain productive beyond their years in government service.
