Governor Bassey Edet Otu has officially launched the Retiree Entrepreneurship Development Initiative (REDI), a program designed to empower retiring and recently retired civil servants in Cross River State. The initiative, spearheaded by the State’s Medium Micro-Enterprise Development Agency- MEDA, in collaboration with key partners, aims to equip retirees with essential entrepreneurial skills and resources to ensure economic independence and financial stability post-retirement.
Speaking on the program’s objectives, the Director General of MEDA, Great Ogban, said, “REDI is about empowering our senior citizens to embrace new opportunities and build fulfilling lives after their years of service. By providing them with the necessary skills and resources, we aim to reduce post-retirement poverty and foster a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.”
The REDI program focuses on targeted training in leadership, capacity building, and skill acquisition. It is open to civil servants within three years of retirement as well as those who retired within the past three years. Through this initiative, participants will gain the knowledge and tools required to launch and successfully manage their own businesses, thereby developing self-reliance and financial security.
“REDI perfectly reflects Governor Otu’s vision of prioritizing the welfare of all Cross Riverians, ensuring a dignified and prosperous retirement for our dedicated civil servants,” noted Obol Innocent Eteng, the Head of Service.
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Governor Otu has demonstrated undaunted commitment to addressing the welfare of civil servants in the state. Notable achievements of his administration include; allocating ₦10 billion to clear the backlog of gratuities owed to retirees. Implementing promotions for state and local government workers. Increasing salaries to align with the national minimum wage standard.
These measures, combined with REDI, bolsters Governor Otu’s passion to improving the lives of civil servants, both active and retired, and ensuring their contributions are rewarded with dignity.
The REDI launch event was attended by prominent government officials, including Elder Obeten Obeten Enang, Director of Administration (Head of Service Office); Martin Unoh, Director of Accounts (Head of Service Office); and Enwongo-Abasi Okon, General Manager of MEDA.
The initiative has received wide acceptance and commendation as the program is aimed at tackling the challenges of retirement and building sustainable economic development among retirees.
