The Director-General of the Lagos State Pension Commission, Babalola Obilana, has advised prospective retirees in the Lagos State Public Service to embrace financial literacy, stay engaged, and maintain a positive outlook as they prepare for a new life after active service.
Speaking on Friday at the 28th Retirement Benefit Documentation Seminar held at the Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja, Obilana said retirement should not be seen as the end but “a new beginning,” urging public servants to plan wisely, engage with their Pension Fund Administrators, and take advantage of opportunities in the post-retirement phase.
“This seminar is not just about paperwork. It is about preparing mentally, emotionally and financially for a new chapter. Many of you will go on to start businesses, mentor young professionals or explore new passions. Retirement is not withdrawal; it is a redirection,” he said.
He noted that the forum was aimed at simplifying the documentation process, ensuring compliance with the Contributory Pension Scheme, and guiding retiring officers on how to access their benefits without delay.
Participants were taken through documentation and verification procedures, retirement options, interactions with PFAs and Annuity Service Providers, as well as lifestyle adjustments post-retirement.
The LASPEC boss, who praised Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration for consistently prioritising retirees’ welfare, said Lagos remained a pacesetter in pension administration, with a track record of prompt payment and efficient benefit processing.
Earlier in his goodwill message, the Head of Service, Mr Bode Agoro, represented at the event by the Permanent Secretary, Public Service Office, Mrs Olasukanmi Oyebola, described the seminar as part of efforts by the state government to appreciate the contributions of its workforce and ensure a seamless retirement experience.
“The legacies you leave behind as public servants will echo for years,” Agoro said. “This seminar is our way of saying thank you and helping you begin your next phase with confidence.”
He urged retirees to pay attention during the sessions and seek clarification where necessary, adding that the state’s institutions remain open and committed to assisting them.
The event attracted key stakeholders from the pension sector, including PFAs, Annuity Service Providers, legal and financial experts, who engaged with the retiring officers through panel discussions and question-and-answer sessions.
