Labour unions in Lagos State have intensified calls on Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to approve a new retirement policy that would extend the years of service for teachers and health workers in the state. Union leaders say the proposed reform is necessary to retain experienced professionals and improve the quality of public service delivery across Lagos.
The unions are advocating for an increase in the retirement age of teachers and healthcare personnel from the current standard to 65 years, or alternatively, allowing workers to retire after completing 40 years of active service. According to labour representatives, the policy has already been adopted in several other states across Nigeria, and Lagos should not be left behind considering its position as the country’s commercial and educational hub.
Speaking during a recent workers’ engagement forum, union officials explained that many teachers and health professionals still possess the strength, knowledge, and expertise to contribute meaningfully even after reaching the present retirement threshold. They argued that forcing such experienced workers out of service too early deprives the state of valuable institutional knowledge and mentorship for younger employees entering the system.
The unions also noted that the education and health sectors continue to face increasing demands due to Lagos State’s rapidly growing population. Retaining experienced professionals, they said, would help reduce manpower shortages and improve service delivery in public schools and hospitals. They stressed that extending the retirement age would not only benefit workers but also strengthen the overall efficiency of government institutions.
In addition to the retirement policy request, labour leaders appealed to the Lagos State Government to revive the Annual Merit Award for teachers. The award programme, which previously recognised outstanding educators for dedication and excellence, was described as a major source of motivation within the teaching profession. Union representatives believe restoring the initiative would encourage higher productivity, professionalism, and commitment among teachers across the state.
The labour groups commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for previous efforts aimed at improving workers’ welfare, including salary support initiatives and investments in infrastructure. However, they urged the administration to take further steps by approving policies that would secure the future of public servants and reward long years of service.
Many workers who attended the meeting expressed optimism that the state government would give favourable consideration to the proposal. They described the reform as timely and necessary, especially at a period when experienced manpower remains critical to sustaining development in key sectors such as education and healthcare.
Observers believe that if approved, the policy could significantly impact thousands of public sector employees in Lagos and further position the state as a leader in labour and public service reforms in Nigeria.
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