IGP Presents N2.5bn Cheques to deceased officers’ families

 From Aviashima Toom, Abuja

The Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, on Monday presented N2.08bn cheques to the families of police officers who died in active serving in the

2018/2019, 2021/2022, and 2022/2023 years.

Mr Egbetokun presented the cheques to 568 beneficiaries at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.

The IGP said the package is under the Group Life Assurance and IGP Family Welfare Scheme package of the force.

According to him, Service in the Nigeria Police Force embodies sacrifice and integrity, exposing officers to immense challenges and professional hazards. Each day, they confront risks to ensure the safety and security of our communities. 

He also said the loss of any officer reverberates as a profound tragedy, not only within their families but throughout the entire Police Force and our nation. 

"we gather today to acknowledge the sacrifice and heroism of those who have transitioned to the great beyond in the line of duty, and to provide support to the families they have left behind.

"The Group Life Assurance Scheme and the IGP Family Welfare Scheme stand as pillars of support, offering financial assistance and welfare support to the families of our fallen officers. 

"These initiatives underscore our unwavering commitment to the welfare of our officers and their families. While we acknowledge that we cannot fill the void left by their departure, the assistance provided through these programs offers a measure of solace during these challenging times.

"In this presentation, marking the third in the year 2024 and the sixth in the series under the current Police administration, cheques totaling ₦2,588,456,838.15k will be presented to 563 families and next-of-kins of our deceased colleagues. This brings the cumulative total of cheques so far presented to ₦9,851,847,889.88k presented to 3077 families/next-of-kins of our departed colleagues, including previous presentations between July 2023 and March 2024.

"To the immediate family members and next-of-kins present, we extend our deepest empathy. Your loved ones were not just officers; they were heroes who dedicated their lives to the service of our nation. While we can never fully repay the debt of gratitude we owe them, through these initiatives, we seek to honor their memory and provide some relief to you, their families.

7. I must reiterate that the welfare of police officers remains paramount to this administration. 

"As we endeavor to enhance the conditions under which they serve, we must also ensure that their families are not forgotten, particularly during times of need. We are committed to continually evolving new welfare schemes and revitalizing existing ones to adequately support the families of our fallen heroes while improving the service conditions of serving officers.

"On assuming office, I pledged to prioritize the needs and welfare of every policeman, whether serving, retired, or deceased. Foremost among our priorities is enhancing police pensions, addressing the enduring calls for improved pension earnings by retired officers. 

"This we remain committed to until our aspirations are met. Additionally, ensuring adequate housing for every police family is of paramount importance, and we are diligently collaborating with housing sector stakeholders to provide affordable housing nationwide.

" I take this opportunity to express gratitude to His Excellency, the President and Commander in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria, for his unwavering support for the Nigeria Police Force, facilitating the timely release of insurance claims". He added

The IGP however commended the outstanding efforts of officials from the Federal Ministry of Finance who collaborated with the Police to facilitate this process.