In a landmark decision that could reshape the future of police welfare in Nigeria, senior officers of the Nigeria Police Force have unanimously resolved to withdraw from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), citing its inadequacy in addressing the unique needs of police personnel.
The resolution was reached during a high-level meeting held at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, attended by officers from the rank of Commissioner of Police and above. The officers described the CPS as “unsuitable for the welfare of police personnel” and agreed that the Force must pursue an exit from the scheme “as it is presently constituted.”
To actualize this move, the officers have called for urgent legislative support from the National Assembly to provide the necessary legal framework for the withdrawal. The internal directive, issued by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Border Patrol Force, emphasized that the matter should be treated as “very important” and has been circulated to zonal and state commands nationwide.
This development follows growing discontent among both serving and retired police officers, many of whom have publicly decried the CPS for leaving them in financial distress post-retirement. Comparisons with military and DSS pension structures have further fueled calls for reform, with retirees demanding a return to the Defined Benefits Scheme and the establishment of a dedicated Police Pension Board.
In response to these concerns, the Nigeria Police Force Pensions Limited had earlier urged officers to consolidate their Retirement Savings Accounts under its management before August 31, 2025, in a bid to enhance pension computations and benefits.
While the National Pension Commission (PenCom) has proposed reforms within the CPS framework—including health insurance and increased pension payouts—it remains to be seen whether these measures will satisfy the demands of the Force or influence the legislative outcome.