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No fewer than 800 workers in the Federal Civil Service are on their way out of the Service as they are due for retirement between now and next two years.
Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, in her keynote address at the 2nd Executive Prospective Retirees Conference, EPRC2025, organized for the retiring officers, said it was sensitisation training for them to determine what they want to do when they retire from Service.
According to her, all the workers who would be retiring in the next two years have to be prepared ahead, noting that the initiative falls under a significant pillar of the Federal Civil Service Strategic Implementation Plan (FCSSIP 25) reforms—Pillar Six: “Enhanced Value Proposition for Civil Servants,” which deals with staff welfare.
“This initiative underscores our commitment to the welfare of Civil Servants by ensuring that you are not only supported during your service but are also well-prepared for a seamless transition into retirement. This conference is a testament to that commitment,” she said.
Walson-Jack further stated that planning for retirement is not merely a final step in ones career but a strategic, lifelong process, saying it was essential that they start early, while also charging them to make informed decisions, and adopt a proactive approach towards their future.
She highlighted the importance of equipping themselves with financial literacy and sound planning that would help secure a stable and prosperous post-retirement life, disclosing that
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in line with the commitment to ensuring a smooth transition for every Civil Servant, the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, through the Service Welfare Office, has instituted several pre-retirement programmes.
She added that these initiatives were designed to empower the prospective retirees with Agripreneurship programme that is crafted to equip them with essential agricultural skills, whether it is farming, crop cultivation, animal husbandry, or fishery.
The pre-retirement training also focused on sensitization and preparedness for the retirement process, exposing them to Business Start-Up and Entrepreneurship programme for those who aspire to venture into profit-oriented businesses post-retirement, offering targeted coaching and mentorship.
“Retirement is not the end but a new beginning, a period ripe with opportunities. I urge you to view retirement as a time to reinvent yourselves.
“Whether it be through entrepreneurship, consultancy, or volunteering, there is a vast landscape of possibilities waiting for you.
“I also encourage you all to delve into health and wellness strategies that are crucial for a fulfilling retirement.
“Maintaining robust social networks and engaging in community service can enrich your lives immeasurably, ensuring that you remain active, connected, and purposeful.
“The government remains steadfast in its support for our retirees. We have introduced various initiatives such as housing schemes, comprehensive health insurance plans, and cooperative societies specifically designed for your benefit,” she stated.
She commended the lead facilitator, Mr. James Abiona, whose expertise and leadership, the Head of Service noted was pivotal to the success of the conference.
The training programme was organised in partnership with JFK Abiona Consultancy Ltd.