*Target To Pay Entitlements Two Months After Retirement* Pays N1.5bn Accrued Right To 428 Retirees
BY NKECHI NAECHE ESEZOBOR—-Poised to ensure that retirees live a comfortable lives after retirement, the Lagos State Government on Friday said from first quarter of next year retirees will begin to enjoy free healthcare service and free transport in Lagos.
The Director General Laspec, Folashade Onanuga disclosed this during the commission’s 70th retirement bond certificate presentation ceremony held in Lagos,that retirees in Lagos will be provided with identify cards to be able to access the free healthcare and use the Lagos state bus service ( LAGBUS).
She explained that the identity card will also service as a means of identification for retirees.
She said that the free healthcare will be provided by state government hospital and other hospitals that the state will engaging.
She explained that the free healthcare and transportation will only be accessible by retirees who are from 60years and above.
The Laspec boss added that four weeks ago the state paid N1.5billion as accrued right to 428 retirees, adding that today a total ofN1.6billion has been credited into the account of 321 retirees.
She however assured the retirees that all outstanding benefits are paid as soon as possible.
She said the state is committed to ensuring better welfare for retirees and hopefully that 2020 will be better.
She said the state is projecting to pay retirees their benefits two months after retirement rather than the long wait.
In an opening remarks chairman house committee on establishment,Training and pensions Rasheed Makinde , assures the retirees that the state is aware of the funding gap but all hands are on deck to pay off all outstanding backlogs.
“We are aware that there are still funding gaps. The state government has consistently ensured that funds are released monthly to meet these statutory obligations.
“However there must be gap arising from unforeseen liabilities that would arise from those who died in service or withdraw early. The most important thing for you to note is that we are of the gaps and will to close it, is there.”
Also,Commissioner, Ministry of Establishments, Training and Pensions,Ajibola Ponnle informed the retirees that henceforth accrued right will be remitted into retirees retirement savings account on a monthly basis.
She said the state is committed to ensuring that they enjoy good condition of services because employees are the state greatest assets
