NAN-H-61
Pensioners
By Olayinka Olawale
Lagos, Nov. 8, 2017 (NAN) The Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) on Wednesday donated drugs and welfare packages to 250 retired teachers and head teachers who are 70 years and above.
Dr Ganiyu Sopeyin, the SUBEB Chairman, while presenting the packages at the 2017 Welfare Package programme for retired septuagenarian, said it was to support the pensioners to live healthy life.
Sopeyin assured them that the state government would continue to improve on the welfare and social support to pensioners.
The chairman urged the pensioners to go for regular medical examination, at least once a year, not minding the financial implications.
He said that many pensioners do not go to the hospital because of money thereby overlooking the importance of medical examination.
Sopeyin said that government was interested and still need their wealth of experience in the running of the state.
“This marks another milestone of annual celebration of our retired mothers and fathers in the education sector.
“Your presence here today is a reminder that one day all of us will retire from active work.
“We cherish the valuable contributions you have made to the teaching profession, even after exiting the service.
“This programme is to say thank you for your support over the years even, as many of you turned 70 years.
“It is also to encourage others, who are still in service that the state government will not forget them after retirement,“ the SUBEB chairman said.
Sopeyin said that provision was made to accommodate more people in 2017, promising to improve on it in 2018, as the board would continue to give necessary support to pensioners.
“As a board, it is our responsibility to ensure that welfare of our staff is taking care of, even after 35 years or 60 years’ active service.
“The state government will continue to pay your pension as and when due,“ he said.
Mr Segun Raheem, the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Teachers, Lagos State Chapter, commended SUBEB for the kind gesture toward the retirees.
Raheem said such programme would give hope to the younger generation that they would not be forgotten or abandoned after their services to the state.
He urged other government agencies to emulate the idea and show love to the aged in the society.
Mr Samuel Adekoya, the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Lagos State Primary School, commended SUBEB for the honour done his members.
Adekoya urged the state government to harmonise pension payment to meet the economic situation in the country.
“We thank SUBEB for the act of kindness extended to retired septuagenarian in the state.
“This gesture will give hope to many of our people and gladden their hearts,“ he said.
A pensioner, Mrs Patricia Ambali, expressed happiness for the show of love to the retirees by the government and SUBEB. (NAN)
OOG/OIF/GOK
Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Olagoke Olatoye