By Nkechi Eze
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has presented cheques worth over N2.4 billion to 1,075 beneficiaries and next-of-kin of deceased officers, reaffirming the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to the welfare of its personnel and their families.
The presentation, which took place on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, covered multiple policy years under the Group Life Assurance Scheme and the IGP Family Welfare Scheme, spanning 2018/2019 to 2025/2026.
Addressing senior officers, insurance executives, families of fallen officers and other stakeholders, the IGP described the event as both a milestone and a solemn moment of remembrance.
“Today, we are gathered to present cheques to One Thousand and Seventy-Five beneficiaries and next-of-kins of officers who lost their lives while in active service to our nation,” he said.
He disclosed that the total sum disbursed amounted to N2,435,421,584.11, noting that part of the payments included recoveries from insurance obligations that had remained outstanding for years.
Disu emphasised that the ceremony went beyond financial compensation, describing it as a recognition of the courage, dedication and ultimate sacrifice of officers who died in the line of duty.
“A police institution that calls upon its personnel to make the highest sacrifices must equally demonstrate responsibility and compassion towards them and their families,” he stated.
He extended condolences to the families of the deceased officers, acknowledging the irreplaceable loss suffered by their loved ones.
“These officers were not only members of the Nigeria Police Force; they were fathers, mothers, sons, daughters, and pillars of strength to their families and communities. Their service and sacrifice will forever remain etched in the history of our Force,” the IGP said.
He assured that the Force would continue to stand by the families left behind, stressing that their sacrifices would never be forgotten.
The IGP further pledged to strengthen welfare frameworks within the Force, particularly those affecting rank-and-file officers, while improving administrative efficiency to eliminate delays in processing benefits.
“Our goal is clear: every officer must be assured that the institution they serve with dedication and sacrifice will stand firmly by them and their families in times of need,” he said.
He also revealed plans to deploy modern technology to enhance record-keeping, streamline claims processing and promote transparency in welfare administration.
The police chief commended the Force Insurance Unit for facilitating the claims process and appreciated insurance companies for fulfilling their obligations, assuring continued collaboration to clear outstanding claims promptly.
He also acknowledged the support of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Ministry of Police Affairs in advancing the welfare of police personnel.
“As we honour the memory of these gallant officers today, let us renew our collective commitment to duty, sacrifice, integrity and service to the nation,” he added.
The event marked his first cheque presentation to families of fallen officers since assuming office as Inspector-General of Police.
