Lagos reaffirms commitment to human capital

He said the state government has disbursed insurance benefits totalling ₦701 million to 232 beneficiaries as part of its commitment to staff welfare and post-service support.

Oluyomi said the payments were made in batches to families of deceased staff and those affected by job losses in recent years, noting that the initiative reflects the government’s sustained focus on workers’ welfare.

“Today, we are giving cheques to about 232 people, totalling N701 million in insurance benefits that have been paid to people who have lost their jobs in Lagos in the past few years. We do it in batches. The last one we did was also close to one billion naira, and that has been our tradition,” Oluyomi said.

He described the exercise as a demonstration of the administration’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations, stressing that the government has consistently ensured that entitlements are not owed.

“It is a manifestation of the wonderful governor that we have in Lagos. During his time, we have never owed their benefits. Their benefits have never been suspended,” he said.

Oluyomi emphasised that the initiative should reassure serving workers that their welfare remains a priority of the state government, adding that strategic partnerships have strengthened the delivery of such benefits.

“It is very important for people still working in Lagos to know that government has their welfare at heart. Government is kind enough to set up these insurance benefits, and of course, our insurance partner is Lasaco Assurance Plc. With Lasaco Insurance and Lagos State Government, you cannot get it wrong,” he said.

According to him, the benefits, which ranged up to N12 million and N14 million for some beneficiaries, are designed to cushion the impact of loss and provide financial stability for affected families.

“We do not pray that our staff will die before they retire, but in any case, whatever happens, the benefits can help stabilise lives in terms of housing, education, healthcare and other family needs. It may not solve every problem, but it will go a long way to ameliorate the suffering,” he stated.

The commissioner further highlighted broader staff-focused policies of the state, including vehicle support schemes, capacity-building programmes, and improved working conditions.

“Lagos is doing a lot. Recently, government provided cars for senior officers. In terms of capacity building, both local and international training, workshops and upskilling, Lagos State is up there. We do this religiously every year because the quality of your staff determines the efficiency of your government,” he said.

Oluyomi also pointed to investments in workplace infrastructure and social services as part of efforts to motivate the workforce and enhance productivity.

“In terms of the work environment, if you enter some of our offices, it looks like you are in the World Bank. That is the depth of what we are doing. Government is also supporting staff through health insurance, subsidised education and other welfare initiatives,” he added.

He reaffirmed that the insurance payout scheme remains a standing policy of the state government, assuring that it will be sustained to provide a safety net for workers and their families.

He maintained that sustained investments in education, youth employment, and institutional capacity under the state’s development agenda would continue to drive inclusive growth and reinforce Lagos’ position as a leading subnational economy.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Mr Mahmud Tajudeen Alao, also reaffirmed the state’s commitment to the welfare of public servants and their families with the disbursement of insurance benefits to beneficiaries of deceased workers.

“Today’s gathering is both solemn and significant. We are here to honor the memory of our departed colleagues who served the Lagos State government with dedication, loyalty and integrity, and to fulfill a promise made to them and to you—their loved ones,” he said.

He extended condolences to the families of the deceased, acknowledging the emotional weight of their loss beyond official service.

“On behalf of the government of Lagos State, I extend our deepest condolences to the families present here today. The loss of a loved one is never easy. Beyond their official roles, they were fathers, mothers, brothers, sisters, and friends. Their contributions to the growth and development of our dear state will always be remembered,” Alao stated.

The Permanent Secretary explained that the insurance scheme was designed to provide financial support to families of deceased employees, ensuring they are not left vulnerable.

“This cheque presentation ceremony underscores the unwavering commitment of the Lagos State Government to the welfare of its workforce. The insurance scheme under which these benefits are being paid was established to ensure that even in death, our employees’ families are not left without support. It is a practical demonstration of the government’s responsibility and compassion,” he said.

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Alao emphasised that the payments go beyond legal requirements, reflecting the government’s moral obligation to its workforce.

“The payment of these insurance benefits is not merely a statutory obligation—it is a moral commitment. It reflects the value we place on service, dedication, and sacrifice. We recognize that no financial compensation can replace the life of your loved ones, but we hope that this support will provide some relief and stability during this difficult period,” he added.

He further assured public servants of the administration’s resolve to strengthen welfare policies, highlighting ongoing efforts to improve efficiency and transparency.

Addressing beneficiaries directly, Alao urged them to see the gesture as a sign of collective responsibility and support from the government.