Balqees Adeniji
The Retired Civil Service Administrative Officers’ Forum, Ogun State chapter, held its historic first Triennial Congress on Monday, May 19, 2025, in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital with the formal appointment of a new executive council and the launch of its constitution to strengthen the forum’s structure and operations.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that the forum which was established in 2023 was created to serve as a unifying platform for retired administrative officers to reconnect, share professional experiences, and continue making policy and developmental contributions to public service in Nigeria.
This inaugural congress brought together a host of eminent retired civil servants, thought leaders, and public affairs professionals.
In his welcome address, the Forum’s Chairman, Alhaji Sefiu Rasheed, emphasized the importance of collective action in retirement.
He noted that the Forum had, within two years, achieved significant milestones, including registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), successful membership drives, and welfare outreach to elderly and infirm members.
“Our objective is to build a solid platform that fosters networking, mentorship, and policy advisory roles while also ensuring the wellbeing of our members in retirement,” Rasheed stated.
A major highlight of the event was the adoption and launch of the Forum’s constitution, designed to guide its internal operations, governance structure, and member engagement.
This development was followed by the official unveiling of the new executive committee that will steer the Forum’s affairs for the next three years.
The newly appointed officers are:Chairman: Alhaji Sefiu Rasheed ; 1st Vice-Chairman: Mrs. Osasona Sola ; 2nd Vice-Chairman: Mr. Adedeji Adeyemo ; General Secretary: Mr. Yemitan Tunde ; Assistant Secretary: Mr. Aderinwale Ope ; Treasurer: Mr. Remi Adeyeye ; Financial Secretary: Mrs. Grace Olamide Kuforiji ; Social/Publicity Secretary: Mr. T. Olatunji ; Welfare Committee Chairman: Mrs. F. M. Ajayi ; Welfare Committee Secretary: Mrs. Roseline Jacobs.
Delivering the guest lecture titled “Coping with the Economic Challenges of Retirees in Nigeria,” seasoned administrator Alhaji Adekunle Adegbite outlined the financial pressures confronting retirees.
He identified inadequate pension benefits, high inflation, poor healthcare access, and over-reliance on family support as key challenges.
Adegbite urged retirees to embrace financial discipline, create realistic budgets, avoid dubious investment schemes, and prioritize needs over wants.
“It is essential to plan and live within one’s means, especially in this economic climate,” he said.
The event featured a panel of distinguished former Heads of Service including Dr. Nofiu Aigoro, Alhaja Selimot Otun, Chief Dipo Odulate, and Mrs. Iyabo Odulate, represented by Alhaji Banmeke, who spoke on public service integrity, post-retirement life, and the future of administrative leadership.
Dr. Aigoro hailed the Forum as a timely intervention for fostering social support and mental wellbeing among retirees.
He encouraged enrolment in the Ogun State Health Insurance Scheme at a subsidized annual fee of N10,000, stressing that health security is vital for life after service.
Alhaja Selimot Otun, in her address, highlighted the importance of active living in retirement. “Retirement is only interesting if you plan ahead. Don’t just stay idle—travel, socialize, and stay active,” she advised.
Chief Odulate, however, expressed concern over the state of Nigeria’s administrative services, which he said have declined in professionalism and integrity.
“We must accept responsibility. The failures in administration are, to a large extent, the result of neglect and corruption from within,” he remarked, urging retired officers to mentor younger ones and advocate for reform.
In her remarks, Mrs. Iyabo Odulate (via Alhaji Banmeke) expanded the discussion beyond financial issues, pointing to psychological, family, and security challenges that many retirees face.
She advocated the use of modern technology and innovative approaches to tackle these concerns.
Other notable speakers included Elder Comrade Alhaji Ashiru, who traced Nigeria’s governance issues back to the post-independence era.
He called on Nigerians to pray for transformational leadership.
Town Planner Funmi Ajegunle reminded attendees that retirement marks a transition—not an end—urging continuous contribution to society.
Representing former Ogun State Governor, Senator Ibikunle Amosun, Engr. Kayode Ademolake conveyed the former governor’s goodwill and encouragement.
“We celebrate your service and wish you sound health and fulfillment in retirement,” he said.
The State Chairman of ASUSS, Comrade Agbesonwa, also commended the retirees, stressing the importance of rest, moderate exercise, and social engagement for healthy living.
The congress concluded with generous donations from dignitaries, including Senator Amosun and Chief Odulate, to support the Forum’s future programmes.
All speakers unanimously endorsed the Forum’s vision and pledged support for its expansion across other states.
With a constitution now in place and a dynamic leadership at the helm, the Retired Civil Service Administrative Officers’ Forum is poised to serve as a model for post-service engagement, mentorship, and advocacy in Nigeria’s public service landscape.
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