By Ibironke Ariyo
Senior Executive Course (SEC) 42 2020 participants of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies (NIPSS) have called on the Federal Government to develop a comprehensive policy to tackle the post-retirement challenges faced by civil servants.
The Deputy General Overseer of NIPSS SEC 42 2020, Amina Yusuf, made the call during a reunification conference organised by the alumni in Abuja on Saturday.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the theme of the inaugural conference of the SEC 42 2020 reunion is “Reviving the Bond and Elevating the Separation.”
Yusuf stressed the need for a government-sponsored initiative, possibly a dedicated ministry, to address the multiple challenges facing retirees, including financial, emotional and social hardships.
He said life after retirement was a real problem as many civil servants were struggling to save for the future due to the current economic situation.
“In the economy we live in today, it is difficult to survive on a single salary, let alone save for retirement or start a business. Civil servants barely have time to plan their lives after work,” he said.
Yusuf, also the chairman of the organizing committee, highlighted the major challenges faced by retirees including depression, loneliness and financial difficulties, neglecting this crucial issue that requires immediate action.
“While young people complain about unemployment, retirees face a host of challenges from lack of financial resources to isolation,” he said.
In his speech, the NIPSS SEC 42 2020 Monitor General, Air Commodore Caleb Olayera, also expressed his satisfaction with the reunification program.
Olayera said the main thing is to strengthen relations between partners as many of them are close to retirement or have already retired.
“This gathering is one way of ensuring that our members stay connected and well prepared for retirement,” he said.
Olayera said the members of the 2020 SEC 42 were committed to giving back to society, stressing that the initiative was part of their efforts to promote a better society through the National Institute Alumni Association.
Also speaking, the National Social Welfare Officer, NIPSS SEC 42 2020, Mrs. Favor Ugwuanyi, offered advice to the young officers, encouraging them to balance ambition, diplomacy and prudence in their career development.
“Be wise and diplomatic in your actions. You may make enemies in the service, which may lead to regrets after retirement,” she warned.
Reflecting on her own journey, Ugwuanyi said: “When faced with situations that require acting against others, remain calm, humble and strategic, ensuring peaceful reforms and strong social bonds. »
The specialist, Mr. Franklyn Ginger-Eke, Founder and Chief Strategist, Rainbow Strategy, who spoke at length on how to maintain health and happiness in retirement, illustrated the transformative power of regular physical activity.
Ginger-Eke said there was a need to recognise the importance of staying physically active to maintain a healthy lifestyle and ensure that fitness was an essential part of the daily routine.
“Daily morning walks around the neighbourhood can improve mood, energy, performance levels and overall well-being.
“Regular exercise also helps maintain a healthy weight, control blood pressure and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease,” he stated.
NAN reports that the NIPSS graduates visited an orphanage, Abuja Children’s Home in Karu, FCT Abuja, where N500 was donated to support less privileged children.
