Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has emphasized the need to follow approved guidelines for teachers to benefit from the new retirement age of 65 and length of service of 40 years in Osun public schools.

The Head of Service in Osun State, Mr. Ayanleye Aina, issued a circular on Tuesday in Osogbo outlining the conditions for teachers to enjoy the increased retirement age.

According to the circular, teachers interested in extending their retirement age must adhere to certain guidelines. These include being in the education cadre recognized by the scheme of service, being registered with the Teachers Registration Council of Nigeria (TRCN), being medically fit, and not being under any disciplinary action.

Teachers must also apply six months before they reach the age of 60 or complete 35 years of service, whichever comes first. The application must be endorsed by the head teacher or principal and addressed to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education.

It's important to note that the extended period is not eligible for pension benefits. The Ministry of Finance and the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) have been instructed to stop paying salaries to those who have not fulfilled these conditions.

In essence, teachers must meet specific criteria to enjoy the new retirement age, and failure to comply will result in the cessation of salary payments.

The circular reads: “I wish to refer to our Circulars Ref. Nos. SMD.61/VOL.III/36 dated 31st May 2022 and SMD.61/Vol.IV/52 dated 20th October 2023 on the above subject. 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, ceased 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 are strictly adhered to.

“For the 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.”