TheNewsGuru

Tag: Retirement

  • Claudio Ranieri makes clear retirement decision

    Claudio Ranieri makes clear retirement decision

    Roma coach Claudio Ranieri says he won’t go back on his decision to retire at the end of the season.

    Ranieri will step down as Roma coach this summer and take a director’s post with the club.

    After their 1-1 draw with Juventus on Sunday evening, Ranieri said: “I had already stopped last year, then some teams made me offers, but I said I could only get back on the pitch for Roma or Cagliari. I also hoped it wouldn’t happen, because if they called me then it would mean they were going through a rough time.

    “When unfortunately Daniele De Rossi left, I thought I could stay calm with Ivan Juric in charge. I have been travelling the world for 35 years, yet I never get time to really see it. Before I die, I want to see what is out there beyond football. I think that’s fair.

    “Big Ben is ticking on, and it says time is up.”

    On Sunday’s draw, Ranieri also stated: “We knew that (Igor) Tudor would bring his mentality, determination and grit, so Juventus would be pushing forward with vertical passing. They didn’t surprise us, they just did it really well. Juventus are a great team and I would bet on them finishing in the top four.

    “This is football, once we settled down and started getting out heads above the water, they scored the opening goal. We had created chances before that, but it was good that we equalised straight after the restart.

    “Once you realise that you cannot win, it is important not to lose, so we got organised and took home the point.”

  • Abia gov, Otti vows retirement after tenure

    Abia gov, Otti vows retirement after tenure

    Abia Governor, Alex Otti, has firmly ruled out any plans to contest for a Senate seat after his tenure ends.

    He made the declaration on Saturday during a reception held in his honour by the Anambra Development Unions Association, Aba branch.

    Otti dismissed speculations of a senatorial ambition, describing the rumours as baseless and misleading.

    “When I finish my eight years here, I will retire. I am not going to Abuja,” Otti said, urging critics to stop spreading falsehoods.

    He stressed the need to give room for younger leaders, citing the evolving political landscape and rising youth participation.

    “We are no longer that young. Society is changing, and the young ones are rising. It’s time we give them the opportunity,” he added.

    The governor also announced plans to revisit the 2011 disengagement of 154 state workers, mostly teachers, from the civil service.

    He said the State Head of Service would be directed to urgently review the matter for possible redress.

    Otti hinted that those under 65 might be reengaged on contract, especially given the teacher shortage across the state.

    He criticised the workers’ dismissal on the basis of state of origin, calling it unjust and illegal.

    “For those outside the age bracket, we’ll find fair compensation mechanisms,” the governor assured.

    He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to justice, inclusivity, and correcting the wrongs of previous governments.

    In separate remarks, lawmaker Stephen Ucheonye and Chief Obiora Nwakpadolo praised Otti’s leadership and developmental strides.

    They said the governor’s performance inspired the decision to hold the reception in his honour.

  • PSC orders immediate retirement of officers above 60years

    PSC orders immediate retirement of officers above 60years

    The Police Service Commission, PSC has directed the immediate retirement of all senior police officers who have either exceeded 35 years in service or are above the age of 60.

    The directive follows controversy over the tenure of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun after he clocked 60 years.

    This was decided in an extraordinary Meeting with the approval for the immediate retirement of senior Police Officers who have spent more than 35 years in service and those above 60 years of age.

    “The Commission at its 24th Plenary Meeting of 27th and 28th September 2017 had approved that the Force Entrants should have their date of appointment in the Force against the date of their enlistment.

    “The Commission has passionately revisited their decision and has come to the conclusion that the said decision in its intent and purpose contradicted the principle of merger of service in the Public service and it is in violation of Public Service Rule No 020908 (i & ii) which provides for retirement on the attainment of 35 years in service or 60 years of age.

    “Accordingly, the Commission at its 1st extraordinary meeting of the 6th Management Board held today, Friday, 31st January 2025, approved the immediate retirement of those officers who have spent more than 35 years in service and those above 60 years of age.

    “The Commission Chairman, DIG Hashimu Argungu, rtd, mni, presided over the extraordinary Meeting and had Justice Adamu Paul Galumje, retired Justice of the Supreme Court and Hon Commissioner representing the Judiciary; DIG Taiwo Lakanu rtd, fdc, Honourable Commissioner representing the Police and Chief Onyemuchi Nnamani, Secretary to the Commission in attendance.

    “The Commission’s decision has been conveyed to the Inspector General of Police for implementation.”

  • Brazil’s soccer star, Neymar announces retirement after 2026 World Cup

    Brazil’s soccer star, Neymar announces retirement after 2026 World Cup

    Neymar has said that the 2026 World Cup will be his last adding he was confident that Brazil would qualify for the finals in North America.

    I know this will be my last World Cup, my last shot, my last chance and I will do everything I can to play in it,” the 32-year-old attacker, who has not played for Brazil in more than a year, told CNN.

    He also told the American news network in the interview published on Tuesday that he would not rule out reuniting with former Barcelona team-mates Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez at U.S. club Inter Miami.

    “Obviously, playing again with Messi and Suarez would be incredible,” Neymar said at an award ceremony in Dubai.

    Brazil have struggled in South American World Cup qualifying.

    After 12 of the 18 rounds, they are fifth in the 10-nation group. But the top six are guaranteed places in the World Cup and Brazil are five points ahead of Bolivia in seventh.

    “I have a lot of faith in the team, in the players who are emerging, who are young,” he said. “We’re not in a position where we would like to be.”

    “I think together we can achieve something very big. We have a year, a year-and-a-half to work, to do the right things to reach the World Cup,” Neymar said.

    Neymar started Brazil’s first four qualifying games but went off injured at half time as they lost to Uruguay in October 2023. After knee surgery he was out for a year

    He returned for his Saudi club Al Hilal with two brief appearances in October and November but injured a hamstring and has not played since. He said he is targeting the World Cup.

    “I want to be there, I’m going to try to do my best, to work very hard so that I can be with the Brazilian team.”

    He will be 34 by the time the competition in the USA, Canada and Mexico, kicks off.

    He could play in the United States before then. Al Hilal will appear in the expanded Club World Cup in the United States in June where Miami, with Messi and Suarez, will also be competing.

    They are my friends.” said Neymar, who also played with Messi at Paris Saint-Germain. “We still speak to each other. It would be interesting to revive this trio.”

    “I’m happy in Saudi Arabia, but who knows? Football is full of surprises.

    “When the news came out that I was leaving Paris Saint-Germain, the transfer window was closed in the United States, so I didn’t have this option.”

  • Oyo govt cancels N4,000 retirement form fee

    Oyo govt cancels N4,000 retirement form fee

    The Oyo State government has cancelled the collection of N4,000 as administrative fee for retirement form.

    This is contained in a statement issued on Friday in Ibadan by the Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Mr Olusegun Olayiwola.

    Olayiwola, citing Gov. Seyi Makinde’s commitment to enhancing retirees’ welfare, said the cancellation was aimed at alleviating financial burdens on civil servants.

    “Before now, retirees were required to pay N4 000 to access the retirement form at the Ministry of Establishments and Training.

    “However, with the governor’s directive, an electronic form has been designed online at no cost to retirees,” the commissioner said.

    He said that the decision to cancel the payment reflected the governor’s efforts to prioritise retirees’ well-being.

    Olayiwola emphasised that the decision was a significant step toward reducing financial stress on retirees.

    “It also underscores the government’s dedication to streamlining process and eliminating unnecessary costs,” the commissioner said.

    He recalled that Makinde’s administration increased the gratuity payment to N500 million monthly from the N250 million, saying this had jacked up the number of retirees that receive their gratuity monthly, seamless and problem-free.

    Olayiwola said that recently, Oyo State government initiated e-payment of gratuity benefits, which was seamless and secure for transactions.

  • Army pulls out 15 retired Artillery Corps Generals

    Army pulls out 15 retired Artillery Corps Generals

    The Nigerian Army on Saturday pulled out 15 Generals of the Artillery Corps who retired from active military service.

    Out of the 15 retired artillery officers pulled out of active service at the Nigerian Army School of Artillery (NASA), in Kachia Local Government Area of Kaduna State, 11 were of the rank of Maj.-Gen. and four of Brig-Gen.

    The Reviewing Officer leading the pack  was retired Maj.-Gen. James Myam, who spoke on behalf of the retirees.

    Myam said , “Having come this far, we can only say that we feel highly fulfilled and give all the glory to the Lord God Almighty for his benevolent mercies, grace and preservation over the years.

    “I would  like to express our profound gratitude to President Bola  Tinubu, for giving us the opportunity to serve our great nation in this capacity.

    “We also thank the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed  Lagbaja, we pray fervently, for the Almighty God to continue to grant you the strength and wisdom to lead the Nigerian Army to greater heights.

    “On  behalf of the retired senior officers of the Nigerian Army Corps of Artillery being shelled out on this remarkable occasion of our final disengagement from active service in the Nigerian Army and indeed the Armed Forces of our great nation, Nigeria.

    “Today is indeed a unique landmark for us as we retire to a well-deserved rest after serving our dear country meritoriously.”

    Myan recalled that their military careers started when they left their various places of abode across the nation and reported for training as Officer Cadets at the prestigious Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna“.

    He offered words of wisdom to serving officers, emphasizing loyalty, vigilance, and security consciousness.

    Myan also shared three traits that guided him as an Artillery officer: ”Empathy, proactiveness, and effective communication.

    “To those of you who are determined to make the military a career, please note that our country is enjoying full-fledged democratic governance and the era of military involvement in politics has gone and gone for good.”

    Myam  urged them  to be loyal to the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the democratically-elected Federal Government of Nigeria.

    He said  it was apparent that the government has been on top of itself, doing all it can to provide the necessary requirements for the Armed Forces to perform its constitutional roles.

    “We must therefore understand that the demands of the Armed Forces form a very small sector amidst other competing demands in our nation that require government attention.

    “We must also understand that the government usually prioritiSes allocation of resources based on competing needs of the various sectors,“ Myam said.

    He said this understanding should elicit your support to government activities at all times.

    Myan urged, “You must continue to demonstrate total commitment to your duties to the nation just as you have exemplified in the successes so far recorded in the fight against armed and criminal non-state actors across the country.”

    He appreciated the support of their spouses, families, and friends, as well as instructors and mentors.

    Myan expressed their gratitude to the Nigerian Army and the Corps of Artillery, encouraging the “Gunners Family” to continue striving for excellence.

    The former Chief of Army Staff,  retired Maj.-Gen. Alwali Kazir, other senior retired and serving military officers were present at  the ceremony.

  • Top police officers vie for IGP position amid retirement speculation

    Top police officers vie for IGP position amid retirement speculation

    As Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun nears retirement, the race to succeed him has intensified.

    Appointed on June 19 last year, Egbetokun is set to retire on September 4 when he turns 60.

    However, uncertainty looms over whether he will retire on that date or receive an extension due to a recent amendment to the Police Act.

     

    The amendment, an Executive Bill passed by the National Assembly on July 31, allows the President to extend the tenure of an IGP beyond 35 years of service or 60 years of age, enabling the IGP to complete a four-year term. This bill is yet to be signed into law by the President, creating tension within the police high command. Officers from the ranks of Commissioners of Police (CPs), Assistant Inspectors-General (AIGs), and Deputy Inspectors-General (DIGs) are lobbying intensely for the IG’s position.

     

    Sources within the police suggest that if the President does not sign the amendment, Egbetokun will have to retire. Conversely, if the amendment is signed, the President may extend Egbetokun’s tenure. However, there is debate on whether the amendment should apply retroactively to Egbetokun.

     

    There are eight DIGs, 46 AIGs, and 125 CPs, with four DIGs set to retire between September and December. The retirement dates for the DIGs are as follows: Bala Ciroma (March 3, 2025); Emeka Frank Mba (May 18, 2027); Sylvester Abiodun Alabi (December 31, 2024); Daniel Sokari-Pedro (December 18, 2024); Ede Ayuba Ekpeji (October 21, 2024); Bello Makwashi Maradun (December 25, 2024); Dasuki Danbappa Galadanchi (March 3, 2025); and Sahabo Abubakar Yahaya (September 15, 2025).

     

    Egbetokun’s future hinges on the President’s decision regarding the amendment. The amendment, which adds Section 18(8A) to the Nigeria Police Act 2020, states that any person appointed as IGP shall remain in office until the end of the term stipulated in their appointment letter, as per Section 7(6) of the Act.

     

    Despite the President’s silence on the bill, senior police officers, including DIGs, AIGs, and CPs, have begun lobbying for the position in anticipation of a potential overhaul of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) structure.

     

    Sources indicate that some officers are concerned that extending Egbetokun’s tenure might impede their career progression. They argue that tenure extensions close to retirement could distort the system and increase lobbying and desperation for positions, regardless of merit.

  • Hazard mocks Real Madrid over retirement claims

    Hazard mocks Real Madrid over retirement claims

    Eden Hazard has rubbished claims of retirement and taken a swipe at Real Madrid as he leaves the Spanish giants.

    Hazard has agreed to cut short his Real contract a year early, sparking talk of him hanging up the boots.

    But the former Chelsea captain told RTBF: : “Honestly, I still don’t know what I’ll do.

    “After three difficult years i just want to spend time with my family, go on holiday like everyone does. I read a lot about myself these days, a lot of stupid stuff.

    “Going to RWDM with my brother? I don’t know if it’s a stupid thing, we will see…

    “Honestly, I still don’t have the answers.

    “That said, I’m still able to be a professional footballer, my physique can do it. I rested for two-three years, I still have energy.”

  • Tinubu signs first bill into law as president

    Tinubu signs first bill into law as president

    President Bola Tinubu has signed into law a bill for the retirement age and pension rights of judicial officers in the country.

    While signing the bill, Tinubu pledged his administration’s dedication to strengthening the judiciary and ensuring the rule of law.

    He added that the the Federal Government would continue to empower judicial officers to execute their responsibilities effectively.

    The bill was transmitted by the Senate to former President Muhammadu Buhari in May for his assent in line with the provision of the Authentication Act.

    A statement by Mr Abiodun Oladunjoye, Director of Information in the State House, said Tinubu assented to the bill to amend the constitution.

    “In exercising the powers vested in him under the 1999 Constitution as amended, President Bola Tinubu on Thursday at the State House assented to a fresh amendment of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he said.

    With the signing of the Constitutional Amendment Bill, retirement age and pension rights of judicial officers have been effectively brought into uniformity among other related matters.

    The bill seeks to ensure uniformity in the retirement age and pension rights of judicial officers of all superior courts of record.

    With this, judicial officers of the various superior courts of record listed in Section 6(5)(c)-(i) of the constitution will have a synchronised retirement age of 70 instead of 65 years.

    The Uniform Retirement Age Bill only seeks to bring  the retirement age of High Court Judges to be at par with that of the Justices of the two appellate courts.

    The law will promote public confidence in the judicial system and protect judicial independence.

    It will also eliminate the possibility of removal of judicial officers by the executive arm of government.

  • Gov Umahi retires 17 permanent secretaries

    Gov Umahi retires 17 permanent secretaries

    Gov. David Umahi of Ebonyi on Saturday held its final state Executive Council (EXCO) meeting of his administration and announced retirement of 17 permanent secretaries in the state civil service.

    Umahi, who shed tears during the final moments of disengagement, said that 15 permanent secretaries would be retained.

    The governor announced that the state Head of Service, Dr Rita-Mary Okoro, Senior Special Adviser on Religion and Welfare Matters, Rev Fr Abraham Nwali among other officials would be retained.

    “The Special Assistant to the Governor on Airport project, Mr Frank Ngwu Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Mrs Chioma Nweze would be recommmended to the new administration as consultants.

    “I urge the retired permanent secretaries not to be angry but see the development as a preparation for future endeavors,” he said.

    Umahi thanked the council members for their contributions to the success of his administration.

    The governor said that though it was difficult, it was petinent to accept that a moment as was being witnessed, would come.

    “I thank you for the cooperation you gave me and assure you that I am still a father to you all.

    “The next administration is a continuation of this present one and I will ensure that those who will not be retained will still make contributions in it,” he said.

    Umahi announced that he would finally dissolve the council during the handover ceremony on May 29 and urged them to participate fully in its build- up.

    “You have all done well and my joy is that I made astute engineers and administrators in all of you.

    “Do not be afraid because I am still there for you and God will prosper all you invest the money I gave you into,” he said.

    Dr Kelechi Igwe, the state Deputy Governor thanked the governor for his fatherly care to the EXCO members, noting that the memories would spur them further in life.

    “You treated us like a father: scolding when necessary, condoning our weaknesses and bringing out the best in us.

    “We will cherish the moments we shared with you and forever remember your kind-heartedness and ingenuity,” he said.

    Dr Kenneth Ugbala, the Secretary to the State Government, said that words could not describe the impact of the governor in their lives and prayed for God’s continued guidance upon him.

    Members of the council took turns to recount their experiences in governance and gratitude to the governor for the opportunity to serve the state.