An Endangered Specie, by Muyiwa Adetiba

In his poignant reflection, Muyiwa Adetiba, writing for Vanguard News, delves into the deeply personal experience of retirement, framing it not as a choice but as an imposed end to a fulfilling professional life. His piece, "An endangered specie," resonates with many who find their identity and sense of purpose intrinsically linked to their work.

Adetiba's sentiment that he would have preferred to continue working until 70, or until his physical and mental faculties dictated otherwise, speaks volumes about the value he places on his career. This perspective is particularly relevant in a Nigerian context, where career longevity and the associated stability are often highly prized.

The author's emphasis on the "feeling of well-being" and the "emotional and financial security" that work offers provides a powerful commentary on the socio-economic realities faced by many. Retirement, for some, can represent not just a cessation of work but a disruption of a carefully constructed life.

This piece serves as a valuable reminder, from the perspective of Vanguard, that the narrative around retirement is not monolithic. While some eagerly anticipate it, others, like Adetiba, view it with a sense of loss, feeling like a valuable, perhaps even endangered, part of the professional landscape has been prematurely phased out.