Matilda Omonaiye/
The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has called for stronger welfare support, sustainable opportunities and greater societal recognition for retired police officers, saying those who devoted their lives to protecting the nation deserve to live with dignity and purpose after leaving active service.
Disu made the call on Tuesday while delivering the keynote address at the Gallant Officers Recognition and Welfare Initiative 2026, a virtual event organised by Naija Police & U (Friend or Friend).
Speaking on the theme, “Life After Police: Building Purpose, Welfare and Opportunities Beyond Service,” the Inspector-General said the enormous sacrifices made by police officers in safeguarding lives and property often go unnoticed despite the risks, personal hardships and years of commitment required by the profession.
He described policing as far more than a career, saying it is a lifelong calling rooted in service, integrity and nation-building.
According to him, officers routinely operate in hostile environments, spend prolonged periods away from their families and respond to emergencies under life-threatening conditions, often making immense personal sacrifices in the line of duty.
“While the uniform may one day be laid aside, the values, experience and leadership cultivated over decades of service remain invaluable assets to society,” the IGP said.
Disu stressed that retirement should not be regarded as the end of relevance but as the beginning of another productive phase of life, where retired officers can continue contributing to national development through mentorship, community service, entrepreneurship and leadership.
He urged serving officers to prepare early for life after retirement by acquiring additional skills, pursuing further education, making sound financial decisions and embracing lifelong learning.
“A successful retirement is not achieved by chance; it is the product of careful planning, discipline and informed decision-making throughout one’s career,” he said.
The police chief reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of serving personnel, describing officers’ welfare as a strategic pillar for effective and professional policing.
He said ongoing reforms within the Nigeria Police Force are focused on expanding healthcare services, psychological support, professional development, capacity building and retirement preparedness programmes.
Disu, however, maintained that the responsibility of caring for retired police officers should not rest solely on government. He called on the private sector, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, faith-based groups and public-spirited Nigerians to partner in initiatives that enhance the welfare and quality of life of retired officers.
Commending the organisers of the event, the IGP said the initiative would deepen police-community relations while promoting recognition, mentorship and sustainable welfare support for both serving and retired personnel.
He also congratulated the officers honoured during the programme, describing them as exemplary symbols of courage, discipline, professionalism and selfless service.
Addressing retired officers directly, Disu thanked them for their years of dedication and sacrifice, assuring them that their contributions to nation-building would remain an enduring part of the Nigeria Police Force’s legacy.
“The institution you helped to build continues to benefit from your contributions, and your wealth of experience remains an invaluable national asset. We honour your legacy and encourage you to remain active as mentors, community leaders and ambassadors of the noble ideals of policing,” he said.
The event featured the recognition of distinguished officers and panel discussions on retirement planning, welfare enhancement and opportunities for meaningful engagement after active service in the Nigeria Police Force.
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