The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has proposed a 200 per cent gratuity for retired police officers as part of efforts to address longstanding pension challenges within the Nigeria Police Force.
The proposal is being considered by a presidential committee established to examine the concerns of serving and retired police personnel and recommend a sustainable framework for improving their retirement benefits.
The 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 arrangement, eligible officers could receive improved gratuity and pension benefits calculated in relation to their final salaries.
The initiative also seeks to address persistent demands by serving police personnel to withdraw from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).
Agitation over police pensions has continued for years, with retirees expressing concerns over inadequate payments, delays in receiving their entitlements and administrative challenges.
The rising cost of living has further intensified concerns about pensioners’ ability to meet household expenses and medical bills.
President Bola Tinubu’s intervention in the matter has raised expectations of a lasting solution to the pension crisis.
The Federal Government has reportedly cleared outstanding pension arrears that left some retirees waiting for up to two years. Some beneficiaries have also received increased payments said to be nearly twice their previous amounts.
One of the major issues before the committee is whether any approved reforms should extend to officers who retired before the new framework takes effect.
Its recommendations are expected to address outstanding pension liabilities, funding arrangements, eligibility requirements and the administration of retirement benefits.
Disu’s engagement with the Presidency and relevant institutions is aimed at advancing discussions on the proposed reforms and improving coordination among agencies responsible for police retirement benefits.
However, the proposed 200 per cent gratuity and revised pension structure have not received final approval.
Their implementation will depend on the committee’s recommendations, the Federal Government’s decision and the availability of funds.
Until formal approval and implementation guidelines are issued, the proposed benefits remain under consideration and are not yet established entitlements.
