With inflation and rising living costs increasing pressure on fixed-income earners, the Lagos State Government has expanded its welfare support for pensioners.

It provided relief packages to retired public servants to strengthen social protection and cushion the impact of prevailing economic challenges.

The initiative, coordinated by the Lagos State Pension Commission (LASPEC), began in Ikeja Division and is expected to be extended to Badagry, Ikorodu, Lagos Island and Epe divisions as part of measures aimed at improving the welfare of retirees across the state.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony in Lagos, Director-General of LASPEC, Babalola Obilana, said the programme reflected the government’s recognition of the contributions of retired workers and its commitment to ensuring that retirement remains a period of dignity and comfort.

According to him, pensioners remain important stakeholders in the state’s development journey, having played significant roles in building the public institutions that continue to drive governance and economic growth.

“Our retirees helped lay the foundation for the public service we have today. This initiative is not only about distributing welfare items but also about appreciating their sacrifices and reassuring them that they remain valued members of the Lagos state family,” he said.

Obilana noted that beyond welfare interventions, LASPEC is pursuing broader reforms aimed at improving pension administration, enhancing healthcare support and making services more accessible to retirees.

He added that the administration of Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu remained committed to prompt payment of pension entitlements and the implementation of policies that improve the quality of life of senior citizens in the state.

A retired education officer, Grace Akinyemi, who spoke at the forum, said the programme would help many pensioners cope with prevailing economic realities.