Lagos Pays N701m Insurance Benefits to Families of 232 Deceased Workers

The Lagos State Government on Friday presented a total of N701,054,344.57 as insurance death benefits to the dependants of 232 deceased public servants, reaffirming its commitment to workers’ welfare and social protection.

The cheque presentation ceremony, held at the State Treasury Office (STO) Resource Centre in Ikeja, was led by the Lagos State Commissioner for Finance, Abayomi Oluyomi, who described the event as both solemn and significant.

Oluyomi said the initiative reflects the administration’s resolve to honour its obligations to workers and their families, while also cushioning the impact of loss on beneficiaries.

“It is both a painful and an important day,” he said, adding that  “Painful, because we remember husbands, wives, fathers, mothers and colleagues who are no longer with us; important, because we are here to keep a promise made to them and to you.”

He commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for prioritising staff welfare through people-centred policies.

“Under his leadership, staff welfare has become something we see and feel in very practical ways like today,” he stated.

Addressing the beneficiaries, the Commissioner noted that while financial compensation cannot replace the loss of loved ones, the benefits are intended to provide relief and stability.

“The cheques you will receive today are not just figures on paper; they represent recognition of the years of loyal service your loved ones gave to this State,” he said, saying that “They are a clear message that the Lagos State Government stands with you, even in this difficult season.”

He added that the Lagos State Insurance Scheme was designed to ensure families are not left vulnerable in the face of unexpected loss, assuring serving officers of continued commitment to their welfare.

“When we ask you to give your best in service to Lagos, it is because we are equally committed to standing by you and your families,” Oluyomi said, urging beneficiaries to use the funds prudently.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Mahmud Tajudeen Alao, described the gathering as a moment to honour the legacy of the deceased workers while fulfilling a critical obligation to their families.

“Today’s gathering is both solemn and significant. We are here to honour the memory of our departed colleagues who served the Lagos State Government with dedication, loyalty and integrity, and to fulfil a promise made to them and to you-their loved ones,” he said.

Alao stressed that the insurance scheme reflects government’s compassion and responsibility towards its workforce.

“The payment of these insurance benefits is not merely a statutory obligation, it is a moral commitment. It reflects the value we place on service, dedication, and sacrifice,” he stated.

He reassured public servants of sustained welfare policies, adding that the Ministry would continue to ensure transparency and prompt processing of entitlements.

Speaking further, Chairman, House of Assembly Committee on Finance, Femi Saheed, urged beneficiaries to prioritise education and act responsibly in managing the funds.

“The commitment of Lagos State Government is to put smiles on people’s faces. Your deceased loved ones worked assiduously,” he said, adding that “The best way to invest this little resource is to invest in those in the family pursuing education. Make education your priority and have the fear of God.”

He warned against mismanagement of the funds, particularly by those representing beneficiaries.

“You don’t corner what belongs to the orphans; it is a great sin. If you are representing someone directly affected, have the fear of God,” Saheed added.

On his part, the Managing Director of LASACO Assurance Plc, Ademoye Shobo, represented by the General Manager, Business Management, Muyiwa Anwoju, said the company remains committed to supporting affected families.

“The insurance company is in existence to bring succour to the lives of the affected. Make the best use of this money,” he said, noting that LASACO has operated for over 40 years.

He commended Lagos State for its commitment to workers’ welfare.

“Of all the states in Nigeria, Lagos State has been one that takes care of its workers in full capacity,” he said, urging representatives of beneficiaries to ensure children of the deceased are properly cared for, particularly through education.

The event underscored the Lagos State Government’s continued effort to provide institutional support for workers and their families, reinforcing its position as a responsive and compassionate employer.