The Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, has restated that teachers in the state's public schools must meet certain conditions in order to retire at the new age of 65 and after 40 years of service. These conditions were previously approved and are being enforced.
This information was provided in a circular issued by the state's Head of Service, Mr. Ayanleye Aina, in the capital city of Osogbo on Tuesday.
The circular emphasized that those interested in retiring at the new age must adhere to the specified guidelines.
According to the guidelines, teachers must belong to the education cadre recognized in the service scheme in order to benefit from the retirement plan.
The guidelines also state that the teacher must be registered with the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria, physically fit as confirmed by a qualified medical professional, and free from any disciplinary actions.
Furthermore, eligible teachers must submit their retirement application six months before turning 60 or after completing 35 years of service, whichever comes first.
The guidelines also require the application to be endorsed by the Head Teacher/Principal and sent to the Ministry of Education's Permanent Secretary, among other things.
However, the guidelines specify that the extension period is not eligible for pension benefits.
The circular directed the Ministry of Finance and the State Universal Basic Education Board to immediately halt the payment of salaries to those who are already enjoying the new retirement age without meeting the requirements.
The circular states, 'I want to reference our Circulars Ref. Nos. SMD.61/VOL.III/36 dated 31st May, 2022 and SMD.61/Vol.IV/52 dated 20th October, 2023 regarding the above subject.'
'I want to emphasize that the conditions outlined in the aforementioned Circulars are still in effect.'
'As a result, individuals who are already benefitting from the new retirement age and length of service without meeting the necessary criteria will no longer receive such benefits as per this circular.'
'To emphasize, in order for an officer to enjoy the new retirement age and length of service, it is required that the guidelines be strictly followed.'
'For clarity, a copy of the referenced guidelines is attached herewith. Relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of government are requested to ensure widespread circulation of this Circular and strict adherence to it.'
NAN
