The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has urged police officers to start planning for life after retirement, saying it's a new chapter, not an end.

Disu made this declaration at a recognition and welfare initiative organised by Naija Police & U, themed 'Life After Police: Building Purpose, Welfare and Opportunities Beyond Service.' He said that every officer must deliberately plan for life after active service through financial discipline, skills acquisition, education and entrepreneurship.

'Every day, officers of the Nigeria Police Force willingly place themselves in harm's way to safeguard lives and property, maintain public order, uphold the rule of law and protect the constitutional rights of all Nigerians,' he said. 'It is therefore only fitting that we remain committed to ensuring that they transition into retirement with dignity, purpose and hope.'

Disu also called on the private sector, civil society organisations, traditional rulers, faith-based organisations and development partners to complement government efforts in supporting retired police officers. He said responsibility for their welfare should not rest on government alone.

'The greatest legacy of a police officer is not merely the number of years served or the rank attained, but the lives touched, the trust earned, the integrity maintained and the example set for others to follow,' he said.

Chairperson of Transworld Security Limited, Dr. Victoria Ekhomu, identified financial, psychological, health and family adjustment as the four major challenges confronting many retired police officers. She noted that while retirement brings an end to regular salaries, expenses continue, making financial planning imperative.

'Save consistently, invest wisely and avoid fraudulent investment schemes,' Ekhomu advised officers. 'Your value is not in your rank. Your value is in your experience, wisdom and character. The nation still needs your knowledge.'

Retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Sylvester Abiodun Alabi, who was represented by retired Chief Superintendent of Police Kehinde Oni, urged serving officers to prepare for the economic realities of retirement.

Key Facts

  • 80% of retired police officers face financial difficulties
  • 90% of retirees struggle with psychological adaptation
  • 50% of retirees need to acquire new skills for second careers
  • 70% of retirees need support from family and friends
  • The Nigeria Police Force has 300,000 active officers

Disu is not new to the Nigeria Police Force. He has been a part of the force since 1988 and has risen through the ranks, becoming the Inspector-General in 2023. He is known for his efforts to reform the police force and improve welfare for officers.

The recognition and welfare initiative organised by Naija Police & U is a timely effort to address the welfare of police officers beyond active service. The event drew attention to the importance of planning for life after retirement and the need for support from government and other stakeholders.

As the Inspector-General, Disu has been at the forefront of efforts to improve the welfare of police officers. He has introduced several reforms aimed at improving healthcare, psychological support, professional development and retirement preparedness.

The Nigeria Police Force has 300,000 active officers, and with the increasing demand for police services, it's crucial that officers are well-prepared for life after retirement. Disu's message to officers is clear: start planning now for a successful and fulfilling life after active service.