The Lagos State Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, in collaboration with the Public Service Office, on Tuesday launched an intensive entrepreneurship training programme for retiring and retired civil servants, aimed at equipping them with practical skills to secure financial independence after active service.
The three-day capacity-building session, held at the Staff Clinic within the State Secretariat, Alausa, Ikeja, is designed to support a smooth transition from public service to self-employment.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Honourable Commissioner for Wealth Creation and Employment, Hon. Akinyemi Bankole Ajigbotafe, described the initiative as a proactive step to safeguard the well-being of public officers post-retirement. He noted that Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu remains committed to ensuring that both serving and retired government employees enjoy good health and economic stability.
According to the Commissioner, the initiative forms part of the state government’s broader strategy to prepare workers for life beyond public service.
Ajigbotafe stated that the training would equip participants with essential business and financial management skills, as well as hands-on experience in selected trades, to help them remain economically productive after retirement. He reaffirmed the Ministry’s resolve to create inclusive wealth opportunities for all residents of Lagos, irrespective of age or background.
“This programme directly reflects our vision to promote self-sufficiency, reduce post-retirement dependency, and harness the years of experience civil servants bring to the table to benefit the private sector,” he said.
With the theme ‘Entrepreneurship Beyond Service: Retire, Reignite, Build’, the training features sessions on business planning, enterprise innovation, funding access, and practical instruction in fish farming, poultry, soap and detergent production, and household disinfectant manufacturing.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Head of Service, Mr Olabode Shuaheeb Agoro, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Relations, Mr Sesan Tunde Ogundeko (mni), praised the initiative as a vital tool for transforming retirees into entrepreneurs.
“Retirement should herald a new, fulfilling phase. With the right knowledge and mindset, our retired officers can become successful business owners, employers of labour, and major contributors to Lagos State’s economy,” Ogundeko said.
He affirmed the state government’s continued dedication to staff welfare, both in service and retirement, and called on participants to make the most of the opportunity, using it to approach their next chapter with confidence and resolve.
Earlier, while welcoming participants, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, ESV. Olayinka Adebayo Wasiu, underscored the importance of empowering civil servants to retire with a sense of purpose and readiness for the future.
He said the training reinforces the government’s commitment to inclusive economic growth and the pursuit of dignified standards of living for its workforce at all stages.
Several attendees expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government for the initiative, describing it as a timely opportunity to gain financial self-reliance and contribute meaningfully to economic development within their communities.
