Retired Nigerian Police Officers Stage Nationwide Protest Over Poor Pensions.

A nationwide protest was held by retired Nigerian police officers yesterday, July 21, 2025, to demand better pension benefits and welfare. The protesters, who gathered in various states including Abuja, Edo, Plateau, Kwara, Taraba, and Cross Rivers, expressed frustration over the Contributory Pension Scheme, which they described as "exploitative and unjust".

*The Grievances*

The retired officers are seeking removal from the Contributory Pension Scheme, citing meager benefits that barely cover their living expenses. Some retirees revealed they receive as little as N14,000 to N22,000 monthly, despite serving for 35 years or more. This has led to widespread poverty among retired police officers, with many struggling to make ends meet.

*Protest Highlights*

- In Abuja, protesters marched to the National Assembly entrance gate, where they were joined by activist Omoyele Sowore, who led a protest march to the Force Headquarters and National Assembly.

- In Calabar, Cross River State, retired officers braved the rain to stage a peaceful protest, calling on the Federal Government to exempt the Nigeria Police Force from the Contributory Pension Scheme.

- In Ilorin.

*Inspector General of Police's Response*

The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, met with the protesters and assured them that the police leadership is working to address their pension-related grievances. He, however, stated that exiting the Contributory Pension Scheme might not be immediate, but promised to engage with top government officials to improve police retirees' welfare.¹ ²

*Call for Action*

The protesters urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene and direct the removal of the Nigeria Police Force from the Contributory Pension Scheme. They also demanded the establishment of a police pension board to oversee pension matters.³

This protest highlights the plight of retired police officers in Nigeria and the need for urgent reform to ensure they receive decent pensions and live with dignity.