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Chuks Udo Okonta
The Lagos State Pension Commission (LASPEC) has urged prospective retirees in the State civil service to ensure they begin documentation six months prior to their retirement. This was made known during the 20th Pre-Retirement documentation Seminar.
The virtual seminar, held on the 22nd of June 2021, had in attendance the honorable Commissioner for Establishments, Training, and Pensions Mrs. Ajibola Ponnle, ably represented by Permanent Secretary Civil Service Pension Office, Mr Oluwole Onasanya, enlightened prospective retirees on the gains of early and proper documentation and matters bothering on health care, financial prudence and independence after retirement.
The commissioner congratulated prospective retiree on their preparation towards disengagement from active service after serving the state and public meticulously and meritoriously. He also commended LASPEC for their consistency towards ensuring that retirees are paid and properly attended to.
“LASPEC has done tremendously when it comes to preparation and presentation on retirees’ bond certificates. In the last 2 years, they have maintained consistency and prudence and they have continuously ensured that Lagos State remains the only State where pension administration matters are working effectively.”
Ponle stressed that the Babajide Sanwo-Olu administration is centred around ensuring that retirees are paid as at when due while striking to ensure that all pending payments are offset to facilitate the pay-as-you-go mode of payment for retirees. She stated that the governor is committed to the welfare of the workforce and pensioners across the State.
The Director-General Babalola Obilna in his welcome address, stated that the purpose of the Retirement Benefit Documentation Seminar was to guide staff of the State civil service to guarantee a smooth exit from active service.
In his words, “having spent a significant amount of productive years working for the State Government, it is imperative that transition to retirement must be stress free.”
He further asserted that the Lagos State Government is passionate about the welfare of its workforce, present and post service. Stating that the Sanwo-Olu administration is on its toes on certifying the speedy resolution of all pension matters, stressing that the State and LASPEC are constantly reviewing & improving its business processes in a bid to attain the administration’s goal of immediate payment of pension entitlements upon retirement from the Public Service.
“Today’s program was put together to educate you on the necessary documentation required for you to access your accrued rights and pension after you retire. The program will provide valuable information on how to plan your personal finances in retirement, knowledge of investment and estate planning, and health tips to promote healthy living.” he said.
Executive Director, Finance and Investment Olumuyiwa Oshin, advised prospective retirees to put all what is learnt at the seminar into practice so that their exit will be seamless as soon as possible.