Government begins biometric verification exercise for pensioners

The Lagos State Government has flagged off Biometric Verification Exercise known as I’M ALIVE for pensioners in the State, according to media reports.

Dr. Akinola Benson-Oke, state commissioner, Ministry of Establishments, Training and Pensions, speaking during the flag-off ceremony at Somolu Local Government Secretariat, stated that the exercise would contribute greatly to effective pensions administration in the State, adding that it would remove the issue of double representation and impersonation of pensioners.

According to the Commissioner, pensioners need only bring their LASRRA Identity Cards to the verification centres in order to revalidate their records.

He added that through this method, government has been able to ascertain the real pensioners on the old scheme thereby eliminating fraudulent acts.

READ: Agency partners with states on smart city initiatives

“This initiative demonstrates, once again, the commitment of the state government to ensuring that resources are prudently managed for the benefit of all and sundry, especially for the benefit of retired public servants who have served the state meritoriously," said Benson-Oke.

Nigeria CommunicationsWeek reports that 15 centres have been set up at designated Local Government Secretariats in the State for pensioners to participate in the on-going exercise.

The centres include Somolu, Agege, Alimosho, Amuwo/Odofin, Badagry, Epe Local Government Areas (LGAs). Others are Eti/Osa, Ikeja, Ikorodu, Kosofe, Lagos Island, Mushin, Oshodi/Isolo and Surulere LGAs.

The Lagos State Government, in its 2016 budget, earmarked N6.5 billion for the settlement of pension arrears in addition to making adequate provisions for the contributory pension scheme in the State.