In a solemn and emotionally charged ceremony held at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Thursday, May 23, 2025, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, presented insurance cheques to the families of 1,235 police officers who lost their lives in active service.
The event, which took place at the IGP Smart Conference Hall, Louis Edet House, marked the 10th phase of disbursements under the Group Life Assurance Scheme and the IGP Family Welfare Insurance Scheme.
Speaking at the ceremony, IGP Egbetokun described the occasion as a reaffirmation of the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to honouring the legacies of its fallen heroes and supporting their loved ones. He noted that while no amount of money can replace the lives lost, the gesture was a token of appreciation for the sacrifices made by officers who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.
“In the face of grief, these cheques are a symbol of the Force’s recognition of their service, dedication, and sacrifice. We remain committed to ensuring that no family of our fallen officers is forgotten or left in distress,” the IGP said.
He disclosed that since the commencement of the initiative, the Nigeria Police Force has disbursed a total of ₦22.97 billion to 8,311 families in ten phases. The latest phase alone saw the release of ₦2.86 billion to the next of kin of 1,235 deceased officers. The payments cover outstanding death benefits from insurance policies spanning the 2018/2019, 2021/2022, 2022/2023, and 2023/2024 insurance years.
IGP Egbetokun used the opportunity to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his continued support of police welfare programmes, noting that the present administration’s backing has been instrumental in sustaining these interventions.
The ceremony was attended by senior officers of the Nigeria Police Force, members of the Force Management Team, representatives of insurance companies, and numerous beneficiaries.
The IGP also assured serving and retired personnel that his leadership remains committed to enhancing their welfare, stressing that more structured and sustainable welfare initiatives are in the pipeline.
“We will not relent in our efforts to build a Force where the welfare of officers, both living and fallen, is prioritized,” he concluded.
