The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun has expressed determination to review and potentially improve the welfare of police officers, both serving and retired.
Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi who disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday said, efforts are ongoing to craft a pension regime that better serves the interests of police retirees.
Adejobi said, since the assumption of office, the IGP has demonstrated unflinching determination to address the welfare concerns of Police Officers.
He recalled that the IGP invited retired and serving Police Officers as well as pension experts sometime in 2023 to a meeting at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, where pending issues pertaining to Police Pensions were addressed with a view to exploring all available means of improving Police pensions.
He said, “upon careful scrutiny of the pending bill alongside legal and pension experts, the IGP advised a cautious approach, identifying potential challenges in the proposed pension scheme.
“In light of these lingering concerns, the IGP remains steadfast in tirelessly advocating for the best interests of the Force.
“The newly formed team has therefore been entrusted with formulating a pension system that ensures every retiring police officer receives the very best for a robust post-service life.
“This strategic move aims to alleviate the hardships often faced by officers, post-retirement”, he said.
The Force PRO said, the Inspector-General of Police reassures all officers, both serving and retired, that the current administration prioritises the enhancement of police officers’ welfare, particularly concerning retirement benefits.
He said, “the IGP remains resolute in ensuring a pension scheme that secures the financial well-being of officers, reinforcing the core values of commitment and service to the nation. “The IGP therefore calls for calm among serving officers and retirees, urging all to align with the leadership of the Force as efforts are underway to craft a pension regime that better serves the interests of police retirees.
“Solidarity and cooperation with the Force’s leadership during this period will ensure the development of a workable Police Pension Scheme that comprehensively addresses the needs of our esteemed retired Police Officers and the betterment of the entire Police family in Nigeria”, he said.
The bill seeking the exit of the Nigeria Police Force from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) is currently awaiting approval.
Some retired officers have sought removal from the CPS, stating that the scheme is not beneficial to its members.
