Adeleke outlines the Osun teachers' new retirement age requirements

The governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, has reaffirmed that following the established rules is necessary in order for teachers employed by the state’s public schools to be eligible for the new retirement age of 65 and length of service of 40 years.

This is stated in a circular that was released on Tuesday in Osogbo, the state capital, by Mr. Ayanleye Aina, the state head of services.

The circular stated that all those who wish to benefit from the new, higher retirement age must adhere to the prescribed rules.

According to the criteria, instructors must belong to the education cadre recognized by the scheme of service in order to be eligible for benefits.

In addition, it states that the officer cannot be subject to disciplinary action, be registered with the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria, and be deemed medically fit by a licensed physician.

It further stated that the eligible officer must apply six months in advance of reaching sixty years of age or thirty-five years of service, whichever comes first.

The instructions stipulated that the application needed to be written to the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, and approved by the eligible officer’s principal or head teacher.

It did state, however, that the additional term was not pensionable.

It ordered the State Universal Basic Education Board and the Ministry of Finance to immediately cease paying salaries to individuals who have already reached the new retirement age without meeting the requirements.

The circular says, “On the aforesaid subject, I wish to refer you our Circulars Ref. Nos. SMD.61/VOL.III/36 dated May 31, 2022, and SMD.61/Vol. IV/52 dated October 20, 2023.

“I reiterate that the conditions stated in the aforementioned Circulars still subsist.

“Consequently, all those already enjoying the new retirement age and length of service without fulfilling the necessary prerequisites have, by this circular, cease to enjoy such benefits until compliance with the circulars.

“For the purpose of emphasis, for any officer to enjoy the new retirement age and length of service, the concerned officer is requested to ensure that the guidelines were strictly adhered to.”

“For avoidance of doubt, a copy of the guidelines under reference is hereby attached. Relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) of government are requested to ensure wide circulation of this Circular and strict compliance,” it added.

NAN