The National Pension Commission (PenCom) has called on the Federal Government to significantly increase its pension contribution for police officers, from the current 10% to 20%. The request also includes raising their monthly pensions to 75% of their final salary before retirement. This proposal is part of ongoing efforts to address the growing concerns about the welfare of police retirees.
This appeal was made by PenCom’s Director-General, Ms. Omolola Oloworaran, during her recent visit to the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Mr. Kayode Egbetokun, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja. The meeting was prompted by widespread protests from retired police officers, who have voiced their frustrations over poor pension benefits and called for their exit from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).
PenCom’s statement emphasized the need for a complete overhaul of the police pension structure. The Commission proposed several reforms, including a new health insurance scheme for retirees, a significant increase in the monthly pension to 75% of the final salary, and an expansion of the Retirement Resettlement Fund. These reforms aim to ensure that police officers are adequately supported throughout their retirement years.
In addition to these proposals, PenCom also called for the Federal Government to raise its pension contribution for police officers. With an increased contribution rate of 20%, retirees would see a substantial improvement in their retirement savings, providing them with a more secure financial future.
Despite calls from some quarters for the police to exit the CPS altogether, Oloworaran stressed that such a move would be unnecessary. She assured that the current scheme, if properly reformed, could resolve the issues faced by police retirees. PenCom has pledged to continue engaging with the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and other stakeholders to implement these reforms in a way that benefits everyone involved.
IGP Egbetokun acknowledged the concerns raised by retired officers and commended PenCom for its proactive approach. He expressed his commitment to working collaboratively with the Commission to resolve these issues, ensuring that police officers retire with the dignity they deserve.
PenCom is also collaborating with the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation on a new Gratuity Scheme, slated to begin in 2026. This scheme will offer federal workers, including police officers, a one-year salary as a gratuity upon retirement.
Earlier this month, President Bola Tinubu directed PenCom to resolve the long-standing issues surrounding police pensions. The President emphasized that those who serve and protect the nation should retire with peace of mind, free from financial concerns.
