By Nkechi Eze
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has taken a proposal for a 200 per cent gratuity for retired police officers to a Presidential committee examining ways to address longstanding pension challenges in the Nigeria Police Force.
The proposal forms part of broader efforts to improve retirement benefits, resolve outstanding pension liabilities and address persistent concerns over the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), which has faced opposition from serving police officers seeking an alternative arrangement.
The Presidential committee comprises representatives of the Ministry of Finance, the Office of the Accountant-General of the Federation, the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, the Budget Office of the Federation and the National Pension Commission (PenCom).
Under the proposed framework, eligible retired officers could receive a gratuity equivalent to 200 per cent, alongside pension benefits linked to their last salaries. The final structure of the benefits, however, will depend on the committee’s recommendations and subsequent government approval.
The proposal also seeks to ensure that pension reforms do not benefit only officers who retire after the introduction of a new framework. It envisages provisions for reviewing the benefits of officers who have already retired, subject to the terms of any approved arrangement.
The move comes amid longstanding complaints by retired police personnel over inadequate pension payments, delays in accessing entitlements and administrative difficulties associated with pension management.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s intervention in the police pension crisis has raised expectations among serving and retired officers for a lasting resolution to the challenges surrounding their retirement benefits.
The Federal Government has reportedly cleared outstanding pension arrears that previously left some retirees waiting for up to two years. Pension increases have also been introduced, with some beneficiaries reportedly receiving nearly double their previous payments.
Disu’s engagement with the Presidential committee and relevant government institutions is expected to advance discussions on sustainable funding, the settlement of outstanding liabilities and improved pension administration.
The committee is expected to examine the financial implications of the proposed reforms and recommend measures that could improve retirement welfare while ensuring a workable and sustainable pension system for police personnel.
