The Lagos State Government has paid ₦533,700,724.73 in insurance benefits to the families of 131 deceased public servants, reaffirming its commitment to the welfare of workers even after death.
At a presentation ceremony held at the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, Alausa, Ikeja, the Commissioner, Bolaji Kayode Robert, described the initiative as a compassionate gesture by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration to honour the service of late employees who contributed to the state’s growth.
According to Robert, ₦288,753,779.40 was paid to the families of 80 deceased staff from the Local Government Service, while ₦245,946,945.20 went to the families of 51 deceased employees of the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), bringing the total to over ₦533.7 million.
“This initiative reflects our appreciation for the selfless service of our late heroes. It also assures their families that Lagos State stands with them in their time of loss,” he said.
He urged beneficiaries to use the funds prudently to sustain their families and preserve the legacies of their loved ones.
Robert also advised serving officers to take advantage of the state’s health insurance and wellness programmes to ensure long and productive careers.
Representing the SUBEB Chairman, Taibat Olusola Olona, Director of Pensions, said the insurance support scheme was designed to ease the financial burden on bereaved families and encouraged them to process their pension entitlements without delay.
Speaking on behalf of LASACO Assurance Plc., Mr.Muyiwa Anwoju disclosed that the company had disbursed more than ₦4 billion to families of deceased state employees since 2017, describing it as evidence of the government’s sustained commitment to workers’ welfare.
Chairman of Ibeju Lekki Local Government and head of Conference 57, Hon. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, commended Governor Sanwo-Olu for ensuring the prompt payment of death benefits, citing the swift settlement of claims for four female councillors just three months after their passing.
He also praised the collaboration between LASACO Assurance Plc., Haggai Assurance Plc., and the ministry for maintaining the programme, while urging beneficiaries to manage their funds wisely.
On behalf of the recipients, Mr Emiola Folorunsho Dauda expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government for providing timely relief and hope during a difficult period.
