The acting Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olukayode Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM has presented cheques worth one billion, three hundred and two million, five hundred and ninety-seven thousand, two hundred and sixty-nine Naira and fifty-four Kobo (N1,302,597,269.54k) to four hundred and twenty (420) families and next of kin of deceased officers.
Egbetokun made the presentation of the cheques to the families at the conference hall, force headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.
The money is the insurance benefits for the insured periods of 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 under the Group Life Assurance Scheme and the 2021/2022 policy year for the IGP Family Welfare Insurance Scheme.
In a remark, the IGP disclosed that the Group Life Assurance scheme is a welfare package that was established as a result of the amendment of the 2004 Pension Reform Act in the year 2014 and it is being funded by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
According to the police boss, the IGP Family Welfare Insurance Scheme, which is being funded by the Nigeria Police Force, was established in 2017 to relieve the hardship usually faced by the deceased’s immediate family before the death benefits are ready for payment.
He also said, “I recall that on 14th July 2023, I had the privilege of flagging off the presentation of financial assistance to a total of sixty-eight (68) families of deceased officers who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty. These individuals were duly captured under the Group Life Assurance Scheme 2022/2023 policy year. The total sum of cheques distributed during that solemn occasion amounted to five hundred and thirty-five million, six hundred and eighteen thousand, seven hundred and eighty-eight Naira forty-four Kobo (N535,618,788.44k).
“Today’s presentation involves the distribution of cheques worth one billion, three hundred and two million, five hundred and ninety-seven thousand, two hundred and sixty-nine Naira and fifty-four Kobo (N1,302,597,269.54k) only to four hundred and twenty (420) families and next of kin of our fallen heroes as the insurance benefits for the insured periods of 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 under the Group Life Assurance Scheme and 2021/2022 policy year for the IGP Family Welfare Insurance Scheme.
The acting IGP noted that the Nigeria Police Force is firmly grounded in the belief that every human life is inherently valuable, and the well-being of “our Officers remains our paramount concern.”
He continued, “Our commitment to promptly fulfilling our obligations, including the provision of insurance and other benefits to those officers and their families who have made significant sacrifices for our beloved nations is an expression of our deep appreciation for the bravery and dedication of our Officers. This tangible support serves to boost their morale and underscores our steadfast dedication to their welfare and that of their families. It is a testament to our recognition of their sacrifices and an assurance that their service is held in the highest regard.
“This milestone we celebrate today marks only the initial step in our journey. I want to assure you that we are steadfast in our resolve to further enhance welfare packages for all members of the Police family, irrespective of their status – whether actively serving, retired or those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. Our objective is to establish welfare support that cement the bonds within the Police community, creating an environment where every officer feels not only valued but also protected and motivated to deliver their utmost in service to our nation,
“In extending my heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased Officers, I am aware that nothing can fill the void left behind by their loved ones. However, I implore you to make good use of these funds to address your needs and other challenges, particularly in the context of your financial stability. As demonstrated by these insurance schemes, I wish to assure you of the unwavering commitment of the Force under my leadership in providing adequate welfare for serving members and the families of our departed heroes.
“I want to take a moment to commend the dedication and tireless efforts of our serving officers, whose sacrifices within the current security space and dedication towards promoting peace and safety in our communities have greatly contributed to enhancing the attainment of our internal security mandate. I want you to know that your sacrifices do not go unnoticed. Thank you for your service. Our commitment to your welfare extends beyond words being a pledge we take to heart. We remain steadfast, unshaken, and resolute towards its fulfillment.
“One of the key initiatives in this endeavor is the review of policies and agreements aimed at renovating, remodeling, and reconstructing existing Police Barracks and office accommodation infrastructure across the nation. To spearhead this mission, the Board of the Nigeria Police Force Properties Development and Construction Company (NPFPDCC), under my chairmanship has appointed Mr. Hakeem Oguniran, a renowned expert in property development in Nigeria as the Executive Consultant. His mandate is to lead a special housing agenda for the Police, ensuring that suitable housing is effectively and readily made available for all Police Officers and Men of the Force. We believe that by improving the living conditions and infrastructure for our Officers, will not only enhance their well-being but also boost their morale and overall performance.
“I extend my profound gratitude to our corporate partners and stakeholders for their staunch commitment to the schemes and my commendation goes to the dedicated team of Officers led by CSP Ameh Lydia Enemona, the Force Insurance Officer who has worked tirelessly to ensure that this initiative becomes a reality. Your invaluable effort immensely contributed towards ensuring that the families of our deceased officers receive the support they deserve.
“I sincerely appreciate His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria for his extraordinary dedication and unwavering support in ensuring the prompt release of outstanding insurance premiums. This gesture do not only demonstrates Mr. President’s resolve to improve the welfare of the Officers and Men of the Nigeria Police Force but also highlights his commitment to improving the internal security order of our great nation. Mr. President’s effort will further instill confidence in the members of the Force as they discharge their statutory duties and inspire them towards attaining better service delivery.
“On this note, it is my singular honour to present the cheques to the families of the fallen heroes, who are represented here.”
