Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has assured retired police officers that the Nigeria Police Force is actively pushing for pension reform and improved post-service welfare, following a peaceful protest by retirees in Abuja on Monday.

The retired officers, who marched to the Force Headquarters and National Assembly, demanded to be removed from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), which they described as exploitative and responsible for their impoverishment.

“We all feel concerned. We empathise with you because we are also going to retire,” Egbetokun told the protesters.
“I have been engaging at the highest level to ensure that something is done to improve the condition of the poor pensioner.”

He disclosed that he had just met with National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, where police pension issues were discussed. While expressing openness to exiting the CPS if it leads to a lasting solution, the IGP said other alternatives are also under review.

“If exiting will solve the problem, I will go for it. But if it is difficult, we must look at what else we can do,” he added.

Egbetokun noted that previous IGPs had made similar efforts, but final decisions on pension matters lie beyond the police hierarchy. He urged retirees not to fall for political manipulation or be used by anti-police elements.

“Don’t allow enemies of the police to use you. Be suspicious of those who pretend to be on your side.”

A statement from the Force described the engagement with retirees at the Peacekeeping Hall as calm and productive, reaffirming the leadership’s commitment to listening, reforming, and acting on legitimate concerns.

The development comes amid growing calls for security sector-specific pension reforms, as the Police Service Commission and several lawmakers also advocate for a unified and dignified retirement framework for Nigeria’s police personnel.