THE COUNSELLOR’S ROLE IN PRE-RETIREMENT EDUCATION IN NIGERIA

Many Nigerian workers are scared at the mention of the word retirement. This is because of the unpleasant experiences of the past retirees in terms of the delay and difficulties encountered in getting their retirement benefits – gratuity and pension. Unfortunately, some retirees have died out of frustration and in abject poverty while waiting to collect their benefits. This paper examined the reasons for retirement, the forms of retirement prevalent in Nigeria, namely the voluntary, the forced or compulsory and the mandatory retirements. It emphasized the need to plan adequately ahead for retirement. Some counselling procedures were suggested particularly on proper preparation for retirement and some forms of pre-retirement education necessary for a more fruitful, tension free, enjoyable and long lasting retirement in Nigeria