Lagos trains 400 retiring officers for life after service

The Lagos State Government has provided training to 400 officers from the Unified Local Government Service to help them navigate the transition from active duty to retirement. The initiative, part of the 2026 Pre-Retirement Sensitisation Workshop, was organized by the Office of Local Government Establishments and Training.

Ms. Toyin Ogunlana, Permanent Secretary of the Office of Local Government Establishments and Training, spoke at the event, urging officers to view retirement as a new beginning rather than a career's end. She highlighted that the workshop was designed to equip soon-to-retire officers with essential knowledge and skills for making informed decisions post-service.

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Retirement is a significant milestone in the life of every public servant. It should not be viewed as the end of a career but as the beginning of another important phase that requires careful planning, informed decision-making and adequate preparation.

Ogunlana noted that many retiring officers struggle with pension administration, financial planning, healthcare, and finding productive post-retirement engagements due to inadequate preparation. She stressed that retirement planning often begins too late in an officer's career. The workshop aimed to offer practical guidance for financial security, emotional stability, and a fulfilling life after public service.

Under the theme, “Retirement Ready: Ensuring a Seamless Transition from Service to Pension,” Ogunlana underscored the necessity of early planning, understanding pension procedures, and establishing sustainable post-retirement strategies. Mr. Babalola Obilana, Director-General of the Lagos State Pension Commission, commended the annual program, describing it as a proactive measure to ensure a smooth transition for retiring officers. He encouraged participants to familiarize themselves with the Contributory Pension Scheme and maintain communication with their Pension Fund Administrators.

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Officers should ensure that their retirement records are accurate