One hundred retiring civil servants of Lagos State received start-up packs and certificates to launch their new ventures after dedicated service. The graduation was held yesterday at  Alausa, Ikeja, Lagos.

The initiative, under Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s THEMES Plus Agenda, aims to equip retiring officers with business skills, financial literacy, and right mindset to transition  from civil service into successful entrepreneurs, wealth creators, and community builders.

Head of Service, Mr. Olabode Agoro, said the initiative underscores the administration’s dedication to preparing public servants for a productive life.

He described the training as a demonstration of the state’s resolve to empower its workforce after retirement.

“This initiative is a directive of Mr. Governor to ensure our retirees do not just step aside but step forward, equipped with knowledge and skills to become successful entrepreneurs, mentors, and community builders,”  Agoro said.

Commissioner for Ministry of Wealth Creation and Employment, Akinyemi Ajigbotafe, noted the programme was designed to equip participants with business skills, financial literacy, and mindset re-orientation to transition into entrepreneurship.

“Retirement should not mark the end of one’s productive years but rather the beginning of new opportunities to create wealth, build legacies, and contribute to economic growth,” Ajigbotafe said.

 Permanent Secretary, Olayinka Wasiu, emphasised that the training challenges the traditional view of retirement.

“We want our retirees to see themselves as drivers of innovation and change. It is about rediscovering purpose and reigniting passion,” he said.

Guest speaker Dr. Olajide Basorun, a retired permanent secretary in the ministry, encouraged the graduates to embrace continuous learning, innovation, and networking to succeed. “Business principles are timeless; applying them diligently will guarantee sustainable growth,” he advised.

Mrs. Bukola Durodola, director of Post Service Department in the Public Service Office, described the graduation as a testament to the state’s proactive approach to redefining life after service.

She called on stakeholders to support empowerment for retirees to enable them thrive.

Highpoint of the event was presentation of certificates and start-up packs to 100 retirees, setting them on a path to self-reliance and wealth creation.

The comprehensive training covered modules in business development, marketing strategies, financial planning, fish and poultry farming, soap production, and the manufacture of germicides and insecticides. Participants were also exposed to opportunities for accessing start-up support services.