Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has highlighted the poor treatment of police retirees, particularly those under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), and its demoralizing effect on serving officers.
According to Egbetokun, most retired police officers live in “unacceptable” and “humiliating” conditions due to meager pensions that barely cover basic needs, leaving many unable to afford healthcare, housing, or a life of dignity.
Retired officers receive maximally low pensions, often inadequate to meet basic needs, sparking fears and anxiety among serving officers about their own retirement.
Many retired officers struggle to survive on pensions as low as ₦100,000 per month, with some receiving only a fraction of their contributions.
The pension system is described as exploitative, unjust, and fundamentally broken, with retired officers often considered “dead” after 10 years of retirement, regardless of their actual status .
Serving officers are increasingly anxious about their future, fearing retirement will lead to hardship and regret.
The poor treatment of retirees has a noticeable demoralizing effect on morale across ranks, eroding confidence and commitment.
Officers now view retirement as a descent into hardship, rather than a well-deserved rest after years of service .
Egbetokun has initiated efforts to augment pensions and presented the police’s position to the National Assembly for exemption from the CPS.
The police leadership has introduced a new welfare incentive, offering accelerated promotions to officers who win the Inspector-General’s award for exceptional professionalism twice consecutively.
There are growing calls for comprehensive reform of the pension system, with demands for dignified retirement benefits, healthcare, and recognition of sacrifices made by retired officers.