The Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr Olatunji Disu has presented a cheque worth N2.3 billion to 2,971 beneficiaries and next-of-kins of deceased police officers.
Presenting the cheque to the beneficiaries on Thursday in Abuja, Disu said the cheques were presented under the Nigeria Police Force Group Life Assurance, Group Personal Accident, and IGP Family Welfare Schemes.
He said the presentation covers 2017/2018, 2018/2019, 2019/2020, 2020/2021, 2021/2022, 2022/2023, 2023/2024, and 2024/2025 insurance policy years.
The I-G said some of the payments also represented outstanding benefits, balance recoveries from insurance companies following earlier partial settlements.
He said the payments were legitimate entitlements arising from the service and sacrifice of fallen colleagues in the Nigeria Police Force.
According to him, beyond the financial values of these cheques, this exercise carries an important message: the Nigeria Police Force will not abandon the families of those who paid the supreme price in service.
“The security environment in which our personnel operate remains highly challenging, and we have sadly lost gallant officers in the line of duty across the country.
“Their courage reminds us of the demands of policing and the price our personnel sometimes pay to protect the lives and property of others.
“Their families continue to bear the greatest burden of their absence, and we must never lose sight of that reality.
“To the families and next-of-kins receiving these benefits today, I extend my deepest sympathies,” he said.
He noted that no amount of money could replace the loved ones of the beneficiaries but added that the payment represented the institutional responsibility owed the beneficiaries by the Nigeria Police Force.
He said the presentation of the cheques was a practical expression of the force’s appreciation of the sacrifices made by deceased officers.
“I encourage you to utilize these resources wisely and, where possible, towards sustainable needs, particularly the education, welfare, and future prospects of the children and dependents left behind.
“The welfare of police personnel remains a cardinal priority of our administration.
“I have consistently maintained that an institution that demands courage, discipline, loyalty, and sacrifice from its personnel must also demonstrate genuine commitment to their welfare and that of their families,” the IG said. (NAN)