The Inspector General of Police, IGP Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun has on Monday, 10 June, 2024 has presented cheques for the Group Life Assurance and the IGP Family Welfare Scheme to 563 beneficiaries/next-of-kins of deceased Police Officers from the 2018/2019, 2021/2022, and 2022/2023 Insurance Policy years.
Presenting the cheques to beneficiaries/next-of-kins, IGP Egbetokun noted that the loss of any officer reverberates as a profound tragedy, not only within their families but throughout the entire Police Force and the nation.
He said the presentation of the cheques is to acknowledge the sacrifice and heroism of those who have transitioned to the great beyond in the line of duty, and to provide support to the families they have left behind.
IGP Egbetokun stressed that Service in the Nigeria Police Force embodies sacrifice and integrity, exposing our officers to immense challenges and professional hazards. Each day, they confront risks to ensure the safety and security of the communities.
He added that the Group Life Assurance Scheme and the IGP Family Welfare Scheme stand as pillars of support, offering financial assistance and welfare support to the families of fallen officers. These initiatives underscore our unwavering commitment to the welfare of our officers and their families.
"While we acknowledge that we cannot fill the void left by their departure, the assistance provided through these programs offers a measure of solace during these challenging times.
"In this presentation, marking the third in the year 2024 and the sixth in the series under the current Police administration, cheques totaling ₦2,588,456,838.15k will be presented to 563 families and next-of-kins of our deceased colleagues.
"This brings the cumulative total of cheques so far presented to ₦9,851,847,889.88k presented to 3077 families/next-of-kins of our departed colleagues, including previous presentations between July 2023 and March 2024." he said
He extend deepest empathy to the immediate family members and next-of-kins, saying that "Your loved ones were not just officers; they were heroes who dedicated their lives to the service of our nation. While we can never fully repay the debt of gratitude we owe them, through these initiatives, we seek to honor their memory and provide some relief to you, their families."
"I must reiterate that the welfare of police officers remains paramount to this administration. As we endeavor to enhance the conditions under which they serve, we must also ensure that their families are not forgotten, particularly during times of need. We are committed to continually evolving new welfare schemes and revitalizing existing ones to adequately support the families of our fallen heroes while improving the service conditions of serving officers.
"On assuming office, I pledged to prioritize the needs and welfare of every policeman, whether serving, retired, or deceased. Foremost among our priorities is enhancing police pensions, addressing the enduring calls for improved pension earnings by retired officers. This we remain committed to until our aspirations are met. Additionally, ensuring adequate housing for every police family is of paramount importance, and we are diligently collaborating with housing sector stakeholders to provide affordable housing nationwide."
The IGP commended the outstanding efforts of officials from the Federal Ministry of Finance who collaborated with NPF to facilitate the process.
"My appreciation also extends to the officers and men of the Force Insurance Unit, who have tirelessly worked to ensure the prompt settlement of claims despite procedural challenges. I cannot overlook the noble service rendered by the Insurance companies in promptly settling claims. I urge them to persevere in their noble service to humanity and continue to support the personnel of the Nigeria Police Force."
Earlier in his opening remarks, Force Insurance Officer, CSP Lydia Ameh noted that this laudable gesture was made possible by the swift approach and passion of the Inspector General of Police, who has shown zeal of unalloyed commitment to the welfare of the Officers and men of the Nigeria Police Force since his assumption of office.