Abia Retirees Seek Prompt Payment of Benefits After Pre-Retirement Leave Directive

Some civil servants in Abia State who are due for retirement have appealed to the state government to ensure prompt payment of their retirement benefits, expressing concern that delays could affect their ability to support their families after leaving service.

The workers spoke in Umuahia on Thursday following a directive by the state Head of Service, Benson Ojeikere, ordering civil servants due for retirement to proceed immediately on three months of pre-retirement leave.

Ojeikere issued the directive in an internal memo dated October 12, 2026, addressed to permanent secretaries, heads of non-ministerial departments and heads of parastatals.

The memo directed the officials to ensure that eligible workers begin their pre-retirement leave in line with the government’s instruction.

The directive covers civil servants who have attained 60 years of age, those who have completed 35 years in service, and directors who may be below 60 but have spent eight years in the position.