In a renewed push to address long-standing welfare challenges, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, has placed pension and gratuity issues at the forefront of the Force’s agenda, assuring retirees of decisive action.
The Inspector-General of Police gave the assurance during a meeting with a delegation of retired police officers, where critical concerns surrounding pensions, salaries, and post-service welfare were extensively discussed.
Speaking on the outcome of the engagement, the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid, said the meeting underscored the leadership’s commitment to prioritising the welfare of officers even after retirement.
“The Inspector-General of Police recognises that the issues of pensions and gratuities remain pressing and deeply significant to our retired colleagues. These are matters that demand urgent and sustained attention,” Placid stated.
He explained that the IGP had resolved to pursue enduring solutions through strategic engagement with relevant authorities, urging retirees to remain patient as necessary administrative processes are navigated.
“The IGP has made it clear that his administration is committed to pursuing lasting reforms. He has encouraged retirees to maintain a balanced perspective while ongoing efforts are being made to address these concerns comprehensively,” he said.
In what he described as a landmark commitment, Placid disclosed that the IGP had introduced two key channels to amplify the voices of retired officers at the highest levels of government.
“First, the Inspector-General has created an executive liaison pathway through which retirees can submit their petitions directly to him. He has pledged to personally present these concerns to the President in advocacy for the signing of the pension bill,” he revealed.
He added that the IGP also reaffirmed the constitutional rights of retirees to lawful expression, including peaceful demonstrations, assuring them of full protection.
“The IGP has equally assured that the rights of retirees to engage in lawful and peaceful advocacy will be respected. Adequate security will be provided to ensure that such engagements are conducted without any threat or intimidation,” Placid noted.
Beyond pension reforms, the police leadership also signalled plans to extend support to the families of retired officers, particularly in the area of employment opportunities.
“As part of efforts to honour their years of dedicated service, the Inspector-General has directed that avenues be explored to improve employment prospects for the children of retired officers during future recruitment exercises,” he said.
Placid emphasised that the IGP views the welfare of retired officers as a matter of institutional responsibility and moral obligation.
“The dignity, welfare, and financial security of retired officers are non-negotiable. The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to caring for its personnel, not only in active service but also in retirement,” he added.
He reiterated that the Force would continue to engage stakeholders and pursue reforms that would bring lasting relief to retired personnel.
“This engagement is not a one-off event. It marks the beginning of a sustained process aimed at ensuring that the sacrifices of our retired officers are duly recognised and rewarded with the dignity they deserve,” Placid said.
