The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has initiated a program to prepare workers approaching retirement for life after public service. The Chairman of the FCT Civil Service Commission, Engr. Emeka Ezeh, stated that the program aims to ensure a seamless transition from active service. He made this statement during a one-day interactive pre-retirement workshop for staff scheduled to retire. The workshop is part of the Commission's mandate and welfare program.
According to Engr. Emeka Ezeh, the initiative was approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on March 18, 2024, under the Renewed Hope Agenda. This development has renewed the confidence of civil servants in the FCT, creating opportunities for career progression. Ezeh emphasized that retirement is not a death sentence, but rather the beginning of a new phase of life. The workshop equips retiring workers with necessary skills and information for an easy exit.
The Acting Head of Civil Service, FCTA, Mrs. Nancy Sabanti Nathan, revealed that about 100 staff scheduled for retirement are participating in the inaugural batch of the quarterly pre-retirement training. The program will help retiring officers complete necessary administrative and pension documentation with their Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) and the FCT Pension Board before leaving active service. This session ensures they handle necessary documentation while still in active service.
Mrs. Nathan added that the FCTA would continue to honour workers who have devoted up to 35 years of service to the administration. She urged retirees to remain active through community development, faith-based activities, and mentorship of younger officers. The program will run continuously on a quarterly basis to cater to all retiring staff.
One of the retiring participants, Mr. Chris Ogogo, commended the initiative, stating that adequate mental preparation is essential for a successful transition into retirement. Mr. Ogogo began his career in 1991 at Level 3 and retired as a Chief at the Lower Usuma Dam site. He advised those in service that dedication to work pays and that retirement is not the end of life.
The FCTA's initiative aims to provide retiring workers with a smooth transition into retirement, ensuring they remain productive members of society. The program also highlights the importance of mental preparation and planning for life after public service. By providing necessary skills and information, the FCTA empowers retiring workers to begin their new phase of life with confidence.
The pre-retirement workshop is a significant step towards supporting retiring workers, providing them with the tools and resources needed to navigate this significant life change. The FCTA's commitment to the welfare of its employees is evident in this initiative, demonstrating a genuine interest in their well-being beyond their years of service.
Key points
- The FCTA has initiated a program to prepare workers approaching retirement for life after public service, ensuring a seamless transition.
- The program provides retiring workers with necessary skills and information for an easy exit, emphasizing that retirement is not a death sentence.
- The initiative aims to support retiring workers in remaining productive members of society, highlighting the importance of mental preparation and planning.
