Lagos Empowers Retirees with Biogas and Farming Skills

 

By Kayode Olopade 

The Lagos State Government has trained eighty retired public service officers in biogas production, poultry, and rabbit farming as part of efforts to enhance their socio-economic well-being and promote self-reliance after retirement.

The two-day capacity-building programme, which commenced on Tuesday, April 14, is an initiative of the Office of the Head of Service aimed at equipping retirees with practical entrepreneurial skills that will enable them to remain productive contributors to society.

Speaking at the training, the Permanent Secretary, Public Service Office of the Head of Service, Mrs Sunkanmi Oyegbola, described the programme as a strategic intervention designed to improve the standard of living of retired officers while fostering sustainable livelihoods.

Oyegbola, who was represented by the Deputy Director of the Post Service Department, Mrs. Bisi Rowland, noted that the initiative forms part of the state government’s broader social and economic relief measures for senior citizens.

According to her, “This training is an impactful and life-changing intervention aimed at equipping our retirees with relevant entrepreneurial competencies. Having served the state meritoriously, they deserve continued support to ensure a comfortable and dignified retirement.”

She urged participants to maximise the opportunity provided, particularly in the area of biogas production, which offers both environmental and economic benefits through sustainable waste management and alternative energy generation.

Oyegbola further emphasised that retired public servants had played significant roles in sustaining Lagos as a Centre of Excellence, stressing that the government remains committed to initiatives that promote their welfare and post-retirement self-reliance.

One of the beneficiaries, Mrs. Irene Enogwe, a retired teacher from the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB), expressed gratitude to the government for the initiative. She noted that the programme had opened participants to new business opportunities they had never previously considered.

“This training has exposed us to a new line of business, especially biogas production and animal farming.

 It is highly beneficial and will help many of us remain financially independent,” she said

Other participants also commended the Lagos State Government for its sustained investment in programmes that enhance the well-being of retirees, noting that such initiatives would significantly improve their quality of life and encourage active ageing.

The training underscores the commitment of the Lagos State Government to strengthening social protection systems and promoting inclusive economic development by ensuring that retirees continue to lead productive and fulfilling lives.