By Lola Adeyemi
The Lagos State Pension Commission (LASPEC) has urged public servants approaching retirement to ensure timely and accurate documentation, warning that delays in paperwork remain a major cause of challenges in accessing retirement benefits.
The Director-General of LASPEC, Babalola Obilana, made the call yesterday at the 30th Pre-Retirement Documentation Seminar for prospective retirees in the Lagos State Public Service, held in Lagos,
Obilana said the seminar was part of the commission’s ongoing efforts to prepare workers for a seamless transition from active service into retirement, noting that many retirees encounter avoidable setbacks due to poor planning and lack of adequate information.
“Retirement represents a new phase of life, and proper preparation is essential.
This seminar is designed to provide clarity on the processes, requirements and expectations under the pension system,” he said.
He explained that participants would receive guidance on documentation requirements, benefit processing procedures, and the roles of key stakeholders under both the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) and the Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS).
According to him, the programme also covers critical aspects of post-retirement life, including financial planning, healthcare, emotional wellbeing and lifestyle adjustments.
“The goal is to ensure that every retiree is not only able to access their benefits without stress but is also equipped to lead a productive and fulfilling life after service,” Obilana added.
He reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to retirees’ welfare, noting that reforms in pension administration have improved transparency and efficiency in the payment of entitlements.
The LASPEC boss, however, stressed that achieving seamless retirement processing requires cooperation from prospective retirees, particularly in the timely submission of complete and accurate documents.
In his remarks, the Head of Service, Olabode Agoro, commended LASPEC for sustaining the pre-retirement seminar initiative, describing it as a vital platform for preparing public servants for life after service.
Agoro urged participants to take advantage of the seminar, emphasising that early planning remains key to a stress-free retirement.
“Programmes like this are essential because they provide officers with the knowledge needed to make informed decisions about their future. Retirement planning should begin well before the exit date,” he said.
He reiterated the state government’s commitment to improving pension administration and ensuring prompt payment of retirement benefits, adding that the welfare of public servants remains a priority.
The seminar brought together officials of LASPEC, representatives of Pension Fund Administrators and Annuity Service Providers, as well as prospective retirees from various Ministries, Departments and Agencies.
Participants are expected to engage experts in areas such as wealth management, health maintenance and post-retirement opportunities, as part of efforts to ensure a smooth and rewarding transition into retirement.
