The Nigeria Police Fund (NPF) Pensions Limited has disclosed that it has so far paid a cumulative ₦97.5 billion in retirement benefits to 30,370 retired police officers, marking a major milestone in the ongoing effort to improve post-service welfare within the Force.
The disclosure was made by the Acting Managing Director of NPF Pensions Limited, Mr. Abdulkareem Gezawa, during the 2026 pre-retirement seminar organised by the pension administrator in Lagos.
The seminar, which attracted officers approaching retirement from different formations, focused on preparing personnel for life after active service and addressing long-standing concerns surrounding pension administration.
Gezawa revealed that, in addition to retirement benefits, the organisation has paid ₦39.57 billion in death benefits to 8,847 next-of-kin of deceased police officers.
He explained that the payments reflect deliberate efforts to strengthen transparency and trust in the pension system, especially amid renewed conversations on Police Pension Reform across the country.
According to him, 25,572 retired officers are currently receiving monthly pensions valued at over ₦1.56 billion, a development he described as evidence of steady progress in pension management.
Gezawa stressed that since its inception, NPF Pensions Limited has continued to prioritise prompt payment of benefits while working to eliminate administrative bottlenecks.
He noted that one of the major challenges affecting pension disbursement remains the failure of some retirees to submit complete and accurate documentation on time.
As a result, certain pension funds remain unclaimed despite being available.
Gezawa urged officers nearing retirement to take documentation seriously, adding that proper compliance would significantly reduce delays.
The Acting Managing Director encouraged participants to fully engage in the seminar sessions, which were designed to guide officers through the retirement process, explain benefit structures, and clarify expectations after exit from service.
He said such engagements are critical to the success of Police Pension Reform, as informed retirees are better equipped to navigate the system.
Gezawa also disclosed that police authorities are considering a proposal to peg police pensions at a minimum of 80 per cent of retirees’ final monthly salaries.
While the proposal has not yet received official approval, he said it is intended to address persistent complaints about inadequate post-retirement income and to improve the standard of living of retired officers, in line with broader Police Pension Reform objectives.
Also speaking at the event, the Assistant Commissioner of Police and Force Insurance Officer, ACP Lydia Ameh, assured participants that their entitlements would be paid promptly once all requirements are met.
She emphasised that timely completion of documentation and correct transfer to Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) remain key conditions for smooth benefit processing.
The Commissioner of Police in charge of Pensions at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, DCP Yusuf Sani Doki, described the pre-retirement seminar as an essential platform for officers preparing for a major life transition.
He noted that retirement often comes with emotional, psychological and financial challenges, particularly as it coincides with ageing and health-related concerns.
Doki explained that police officers are eligible for pension and gratuity upon attaining the age of 60 or completing between 10 and 35 years of service, depending on prevailing regulations.
He urged officers to begin early preparation rather than waiting until the final months of service.
“This forum allows you to reflect on your years of service, assess your achievements and challenges, and plan realistically for life after retirement,” Doki said.
He added that such initiatives align with the broader vision of Police Pension Reform, which seeks to ensure dignity and stability for officers beyond active duty.
He congratulated the prospective retirees for their dedication and sacrifices, called for prayers for officers who lost their lives in the line of duty, and expressed optimism that retirees would continue to contribute positively to society in their post-service lives.
As part of the programme, NPF Pensions Limited provided free medical check-ups for participants, reinforcing its holistic approach to retirement planning.
The initiative, according to organisers, is aimed at helping officers better understand their health status and plan accordingly as they transition out of active service.
DCP Doki commended the management of NPF Pensions Limited for what he described as a timely and impactful intervention, particularly for officers in the South-West zone.
He noted that consistent engagement and education are vital to sustaining confidence in ongoing Police Pension Reform efforts.
The 2026 pre-retirement seminar, which commenced at the Event Centre, Alausa, Lagos, forms part of a nationwide programme scheduled to take place across the six geopolitical zones.
The next session is expected to hold in Kano later this month, covering the North-West region, as NPF Pensions continues its drive to reach officers nationwide.
Ireport247news
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