It was an emotional moment Wednesday afternoon for 131 families of deceased Lagos government workers who converged at the state secretariat in Alausa to receive insurance benefits for their loved ones.
Over N533 million was disbursed in cheques to the benefactors at an event organised by the Ministry of Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs and Rural Development.
From the 131 deceased workers, 80 were employed in the Local Governments and 51 at the Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB). While families of the Local Government staff received ₦288.7 million, the SUBEB beneficiaries shared ₦245.9 million.
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For the widows, children and relatives of the deceased, the ceremony presented a moment of healing, hope, and remembrance.
Speaking at the presentation, the Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy Affairs, and Rural Development, Bolaji Kayode Robert, described the gathering as “a moment to honour our late heroes.”
He said the gesture reflected Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s deep 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. We want their families to know that Lagos remembers and values their sacrifice,” he said.
Commending the government for rewarding the services of deceased workers, a recipient, Emiola Dauda, noted that payment could not have come at a better time.
Dauda, who spoke on behalf of the recipients, said the support offered both financial and emotional relief. “We are grateful to the Lagos State Government for remembering us. It shows that the service of our loved ones was not in vain,” he said, his voice trembling with emotions.
SUBEB’s Director of Pensions, Mrs. Taibat Olusola Olona, who spoke on behalf of the Board Chairman, noted that the initiative was designed to cushion the financial strain left by the sudden death of breadwinners.
She urged the families to begin processing other benefits like pensions to further stabilise their livelihoods.
Insurance partners at the event, including representatives of LASACO Assurance Plc. and Haggai Assurance Plc., reaffirmed their commitment to the programme.
LASACO’s representative, Mr. Muyiwa Anwoju, disclosed that over ₦4 billion had been disbursed to families of deceased workers since 2017, saying it was a testament to the sustainability and impact of the initiative.
Chairman, Ibeju-Lekki Local Government/ Conference 57, Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, praised the prompt processing of claims, including those of four recently deceased female councillors.
“The system is working and it gives us confidence that the welfare of our people remains a top priority,” he said.