24th November, 2024
Lagos State Head of Service (HOS), Bode Agoro has warned retirees of the Lagos State Technical and Vocational Education Board (LASTVEB) to beware of fraudsters in investing their money.
Agoro spoke at the weekend during a retirement ceremony for 28 staff members of LASTVEB in Ikeja, Lagos.
The HOS, who was represented by Mrs. Ebun Aina, highlighted the importance of post-retirement engagement and assured the retirees of continued support.
Agoro encouraged the retirees to embrace a healthy and active lifestyle.
“Now that you are retiring, you are not to sit at home. Engage in daily exercise, even if it is just a little in the morning. Watch what you eat and avoid consuming fizzy drinks like coke,” he advised.
Agoro cautioned retirees to approach new ventures with care, saying “As you receive your benefits, ensure you research thoroughly before investing in any business. Look before you leap.”
To support retirees, the HOS announced the availability of wellness and recreation centres in all local government areas, equipped with facilities to encourage physical activity.
He also introduced skill acquisition programmes such as soap-making and fisheries, noting that participants in the soap-making initiative would receive starter kits to help them begin their ventures.
“We believe you can still achieve great things after retirement,” he said, adding that fisheries, in particular, had become a lucrative endeavour for many.
Agoro revealed that from next year, the Lagos State Post Service Department would send birthday gifts to the retirees as part of its ongoing welfare initiatives.
Ms Moronke Azeez, the Executive Secretary of LASTVEB, in her speech urged the retirees to stay mentally and physically active.
“Keeping yourself busy prevents premature ageing and isolation. Engage in meaningful activities or join associations to maintain social connections,” Azeez said.
She described the event as a modest gesture of gratitude, acknowledging the retirees’ dedication to the board.
“This ceremony is only a small way to say thank you, as no gift can truly match your contributions. I pray that God grants you good health, long life, and happiness,” she added.
Azeez reassured the retirees of the government’s efforts to ensure prompt pension disbursements and advised them to complete their paperwork to avoid delays.
She noted that Lagos State is committed to improving the welfare of its retirees, which includes faster processing of pension benefits.
The retirees were celebrated for their contributions to the advancement of technical and vocational education in Lagos State. They were reminded of the importance of staying productive to enjoy a fulfilling retirement.
