The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has urged employees to take early and deliberate steps in planning for a meaningful and productive life after retirement.
Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Lagos, NECA’s Director-General, Mr. Adewale Smatt Oyerinde, emphasised that retirement should be seen as a transition, not a loss of relevance. He called on workers to take personal responsibility for securing their post-career wellbeing.
“Employees must begin financial planning and investment from the start of their careers,” Oyerinde said, underscoring the importance of participating in pension schemes such as the Contributory Pension Scheme under the Pension Reform Act.
He advised workers to diversify into income-generating assets including mutual funds, real estate, and agriculture, while exercising financial discipline through budgeting and limiting debt exposure. Oyerinde also stressed the importance of lifelong learning and continuous skills development to maintain relevance in retirement.
Reaffirming NECA’s commitment to ongoing advocacy, he encouraged employees to invest in entrepreneurial or digital competencies and participate in pre-retirement workshops.
Oyerinde further advised retirees to prioritise their health through regular medical check-ups, proper nutrition, regular exercise, and mental wellness, recommending enrolment in credible Health Maintenance Organisations (HMOs) for adequate post-retirement healthcare.
“Retirement should not lead to social isolation,” he added, urging retirees to remain active by engaging in professional associations, community groups, NGOs, faith-based bodies, or developmental organisations to sustain social interaction and psychological resilience.
Highlighting the importance of legal preparation, Oyerinde counselled workers to make valid wills or trusts, clearly name next-of-kin and beneficiaries, and seek legal advice on estate succession matters.
“NECA believes that both employers and employees must work together to foster retirement awareness and support. With foresight, discipline, and strategic preparation, employees can look forward to a fulfilling, independent, and productive post-retirement life,” Oyerinde concluded.
