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The Federal Ministry of Housing and Urban Development has launched a two-day pre-retirement training for its retiring officers, emphasizing that retirement is not an end, but a “redirection of a wealth of experience” into new opportunities.
The initiative aims to equip participants with practical skills, financial planning strategies, and psychological readiness to ensure a smooth and fulfilling transition from active service to post-retirement life.
The Permanent Secretary, Dr. Shuaib Belgore, described retirement as a transition rather than a withdrawal from productivity.
Speaking at the Ministry’s Conference Room during the opening ceremony, he emphasized that retiring officers are embarking on a new chapter filled with opportunities for growth, meaningful engagement, and continued contributions to society.
Represented at the event by the Director of Human Resource Management, Ademola Ayodele, the Permanent Secretary welcomed participants, facilitators, and retiring officers, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the Ministry’s policies, programs, and projects that have positively impacted communities nationwide.
He urged participants to engage actively in the sessions, ask questions, and leverage the expertise of the facilitators.
“I wish everyone a productive and rewarding training session, as well as a fulfilling and prosperous life beyond active service,” Belgore said.
In his welcome address, Ademola highlighted that the training would cover critical areas such as financial planning, health and wellness, psychological readiness, and entrepreneurship.
He encouraged participants to share experiences and make full use of the platform provided.
The training featured interactive sessions delivered by expert facilitators. Mr. Fashina Kayode, in a presentation titled “Perspectives in Retirement,” urged retirees to identify and develop their innate skills to ensure a productive post-service life.
He outlined four pillars of successful retirement: Financial Security, Health and Wellness, Purpose and Engagement, and Social Connection.
Mr. Francis Olorunfemi addressed the uncertainties and fears associated with retirement in public service, emphasizing the need for future planning, resilience, and a positive mindset.
He advised retirees to invest in ventures they understand and can personally supervise to avoid financial pitfalls.
On health and wellness, medical facilitator Mr. Adeose P. J. urged retirees to prioritize routine medical check-ups, maintain physical fitness through daily exercise, and adopt strategies to safeguard their mental health.
He encouraged engagement in hobbies, continuous learning, volunteering, and social activities as key ways to stay mentally active and emotionally fulfilled.
Concluding the training, Mr. Peter Osondu, Director of Finance and Accounts, highlighted the need for broader civil service reforms, particularly improvements in post-retirement remuneration. He noted that while training equips retirees with knowledge and skills, financial security remains critical for a truly fulfilling retirement.
