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Egbetokun Hands N2.1bn Welfare Cheques To Families Of Fallen Police Officers
It was a day of solemn reflection and renewed commitment as the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, presented Group Life Assurance and Family Welfare cheques worth N2,171,124,041.87 to 1,574 beneficiaries of deceased police officers at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, on Tuesday.
The IGP, in an emotion-laden speech, described the ceremony as “not just another official function, but a solemn duty of remembrance and responsibility.”
He explained that the presentation covers policy years from 2015 to 2025, including long-outstanding claims recovered after nearly a decade of waiting. “Through persistent engagement, we redeemed these claims to ensure justice for the families who waited patiently for so long,” he said.
Since assuming office as the 22nd Inspector-General of Police, Egbetokun disclosed that his administration has now completed 11 phases of welfare disbursements, amounting to ₦24.2 billion shared among 9,735 families of fallen heroes.
“This is more than a statutory duty; it is a sacred trust – a trust to ensure that the memory of our departed officers remains alive and their families are not left behind,” the IGP affirmed.
To the bereaved families, he offered words of comfort: “We know the void left by your loved ones cannot be filled by any monetary sum. Yet, these cheques are a symbol of our collective gratitude and a pledge that you remain part of the Nigeria Police family.”
On welfare reforms, Egbetokun stressed that improving the wellbeing of officers, both serving and retired, is at the heart of his administration’s agenda. “We are digitising our processes so that entitlements flow without delay. Welfare is not a footnote in our agenda; it is the heartbeat of our reforms,” he declared.
The Police Chief also praised the diligence of the Force Insurance Unit and commended insurance partners who honoured their obligations, urging them to remain steadfast.
He further expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his consistent support of police welfare, as well as the Ministry of Police Affairs for its guidance.
Closing on a reflective note, the IGP reminded all present of the ultimate price paid by the fallen officers: “Every name we honour today is a life laid down for the peace and security of our nation. Their sacrifice must inspire us to serve with greater courage and integrity.”
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