LASPEC warns Council workers to update Pension Records or risk delays

The Lagos State Pension Commission, LASPEC, has called on public servants in Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) to take retirement planning seriously, warning that inaccurate or outdated records remain one of the biggest obstacles to accessing pension entitlements after years of service.

Speaking at a sensitisation programme on the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) held on Monday at Adeyemi Bero Auditorium, Alausa, LASPEC’s Director-General, Mr. Babalola Obilana, said the forum was designed to deepen awareness about the CPS, provide clarity on its workings, and address issues that often delay pension payments.

The LASPEC DG noted that while Lagos State has maintained its position as a pacesetter in pension administration, many workers still face avoidable setbacks because of incomplete or incorrect data.

He explained that the ongoing data recapture exercise, being conducted in partnership with Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs), is aimed at correcting such lapses.

“One of the key highlights of this programme is the data recapture exercise. Many public servants are unaware that inaccurate records can cause unnecessary delays in accessing their pension benefits. By working closely with PFAs, we are ensuring that every contributor’s record is accurate, up-to-date, and reflective of their service history,” he said.

According to him, the Contributory Pension Scheme remains one of the most transformative reforms in Nigeria’s public service, shifting the pension burden from the employer alone to a shared responsibility between employer and employee.

He described the scheme as a sustainable model designed to provide financial security, stability, and dignity for retirees.

“For us in Lagos State, this is not just about monthly deductions and remittances; it is about safeguarding the future of every dedicated public servant. After years of loyal service, you deserve to retire with dignity, financial stability, and peace of mind,” Obilana stated.

He also highlighted reforms introduced by LASPEC to boost transparency and efficiency in pension administration, which he said included enhanced verification processes, stricter oversight of PFAs, greater collaboration with Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), and the deployment of digital platforms to simplify access.

Obilana encouraged workers to see retirement planning as a continuous process that begins from the first day of service, not a decision to be postponed until the eve of retirement.

He commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for ensuring prompt and consistent pension payments under the “Pay-As-You-Go” model, which guarantees immediate benefits for retirees with complete documentation.

In his keynote address, the Lagos State Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, reinforced the same message, stressing that the CPS can only deliver its intended benefits if workers actively engage with PFAs and take responsibility for updating their records.

“The Contributory Pension Scheme was created to provide sustainable retirement plans and financial security. Your active engagement during the data recapture process is critical to ensuring smooth and timely pension payments. Inaccurate or outdated records are the main reasons benefits are delayed,” Agoro, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary, Public Service Office, Mrs. Sunkanmi Oyegbola, warned.

He reassured workers that the state government was committed to strengthening the CPS through improved transparency, accountability, and staff-friendly reforms, but emphasised that the success of the scheme ultimately rests on shared responsibility.

“By working together, we can ensure that every public servant is well-prepared for retirement and that our contributions truly secure the future we deserve,” he said..