It was a poignant and deeply moving afternoon at the Lagos State Secretariat in Alausa on Wednesday, as 131 families of deceased state employees gathered to receive insurance benefits for their loved ones. The ceremony, organized by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development, saw the disbursement of cheques totaling over ₦533 million.
For the children, widows, and relatives of the late public servants, the event was more than just a financial transaction; it was a moment of hope, healing, and public acknowledgment of their sacrifice.
Honoring The Fallen Heroes
The beneficiaries came from two crucial sectors of the state civil service. Eighty of the deceased had been employed in the Local Governments, receiving a collective ₦288.7 million in payouts. The remaining fifty-one worked for the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), whose families shared ₦245.9 million.
Speaking at the presentation, the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development, Bolaji Kayode Robert, framed the gathering as a moment to honor the state’s “late heroes.” He emphasized that the gesture was a direct reflection of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of public servants and their families.
“Today is not just about presenting cheques; it is about keeping faith with the people who built this State through hard work and dedication,” Robert stated. “We want their families to know that Lagos remembers and values their sacrifice.”
A System That Works
The emotional relief and gratitude among the recipients were palpable. Speaking on behalf of the families, Emiola Dauda noted that the financial support offered both emotional comfort and timely financial stability. “We are grateful to the Lagos State Government for remembering us. It shows that the service of our loved ones was not in vain,” Dauda said, his voice laced with emotion.
Reinforcing the timely nature of the payment, Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government and Conference 57, praised the speed with which the claims were processed, noting that even the families of four recently deceased female councillors were included. He affirmed that “the system is working, and it gives us confidence that the welfare of our people remains a top priority.”
A Legacy of Support
Mrs. Taibat Olusola Olona, SUBEB’s Director of Pensions, speaking on behalf of the Board Chairman, explained that the program’s primary goal is to cushion the financial strain caused by the sudden death of a family’s breadwinner. She encouraged the beneficiaries to proceed immediately with processing other entitlements, such as pensions, to further stabilize their livelihoods.
Insurance partners present at the ceremony, including representatives from LASACO Assurance Plc. and Haggai Assurance Plc., reaffirmed their commitment to the initiative’s sustainability. Mr. Muyiwa Anwoju of LASACO disclosed that the program has disbursed over ₦4 billion to families of deceased workers since 2017, underscoring the significant and lasting impact of the government’s comprehensive insurance package.
