Retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) Sylvester Abiodun Alabi has called on the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force and relevant government authorities to urgently review the pension structure for retired police officers to ensure their welfare and financial security after service.
Alabi made the appeal while delivering a lecture at the Gallant Officers Recognition and Welfare Initiative (GORI) 2026, organized by Naija Police & You, where he spoke on the theme, “Life After Police: Building Purpose, Welfare, and Opportunities Beyond Service.”
According to the retired police chief, many officers dedicate the most productive years of their lives to safeguarding lives and property, often at great personal sacrifice, only to face financial difficulties after retirement.
He noted that while retirement should mark the beginning of a new phase of life filled with opportunities, inadequate pension benefits remain a major concern for many retired officers.
Alabi urged police authorities and policymakers to prioritize reforms that would guarantee retired personnel a dignified standard of living and provide them with the financial stability they deserve after years of meritorious service.
“The welfare of retired officers should not be an afterthought. Those who have spent decades serving the nation deserve a pension system that reflects their sacrifices and contributions,” he said.
He stressed that addressing pension-related challenges would not only improve the quality of life of retirees but also boost the morale of serving officers by assuring them that their future welfare is secure.
Beyond pension reforms, Alabi encouraged officers to prepare early for retirement through prudent financial planning, investments, skills acquisition, and entrepreneurship. He also emphasized the importance of family support, healthcare, and continuous engagement in productive ventures after leaving active service.
The retired DIG further called for stronger retirement preparation programmes within the Nigeria Police Force, including training on financial management, entrepreneurship, and post-service opportunities.
He maintained that when officers are confident about their future welfare, they are better positioned to serve with dedication, professionalism, and commitment throughout their careers.
The Gallant Officers Recognition and Welfare Initiative brought together serving and retired officers, security professionals, and other stakeholders to discuss officer welfare, retirement preparedness, and opportunities for life beyond active service.
