By Mercy Adi
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has pledged to personally champion the welfare of retired police officers, with a commitment to facilitate pension reforms and improve support systems for officers’ families.
Disu made the pledge during a meeting with a delegation of retired police officers, where he addressed critical welfare concerns and assured them that resolving pension and gratuity challenges remains a top priority for the Force leadership.
According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Anthony Okon Placid, the IGP acknowledged the lingering issues surrounding pensions and salaries, describing them as “pressing matters that demand immediate attention.”
He said, “We are determined to pursue lasting solutions to the challenges facing our retired officers, particularly in the area of pensions and gratuities. I urge our veterans to remain patient and maintain a balanced perspective as we navigate the necessary administrative processes.”
The police boss outlined a two-pronged strategy aimed at ensuring that the grievances of retirees reach the highest levels of government.
First, he introduced an executive liaison mechanism through which retirees can submit petitions directly to his office, with a promise to personally present such appeals to the President in advocacy for the signing of the pension bill.
Second, Disu assured retirees of adequate security should they choose to engage in peaceful demonstrations to press home their demands, stressing that their rights to lawful civic expression would be fully protected.
“As a responsible institution, we will ensure that retirees are heard and supported. Their rights to peaceful engagement will always be respected and safeguarded,” he added.
In addition, the IGP disclosed plans to collaborate with relevant authorities to improve employment opportunities for children of retired officers, particularly during future police recruitment exercises.
He said the initiative was part of efforts to recognise the sacrifices of officers who had served the nation diligently.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment, Disu stressed that the dignity and financial security of retired officers were non-negotiable.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains a family. Our responsibility does not end when an officer retires. We will continue to care for our own,” he said.