By Nchetachi Chukwuajah
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Disu, has advised serving police officers to begin planning early for retirement early by learning new skills, pursuing further education, and making sound financial decisions to ensure a productive life after service.
Disu gave the advice on Tuesday, June 30, while delivering the keynote address at the Gallant Officers Recognition & Welfare Initiative 2026, organised virtually by Naija Police & U (Friend or Friend).
Speaking on the theme, ‘Life After Police: Building Purpose, Welfare and Opportunities Beyond Service,’ the IGP also called for stronger welfare support and sustainable opportunities for retired officers, saying those who spent years protecting the country deserve to retire with dignity and remain purposeful.
He said the demanding nature of policing and the sacrifices officers make in protecting lives and property are often overlooked despite the personal risks and challenges they face throughout their careers.
The IGP stressed that policing extends beyond employment, describing it as a lifelong commitment founded on service, integrity and nation building.
He noted that officers frequently work under difficult conditions, spend long periods away from their families, and respond to emergencies that put their lives at risk while carrying out their responsibilities.
“While the uniform may one day be laid aside, the values, experience and leadership cultivated over decades of service remain invaluable assets to society,” he said.
Disu said retirement should not be regarded as the end of an officer’s contribution but as an opportunity to continue serving society through mentorship, leadership, business and community development.
He encouraged officers to prepare adequately for life after service by acquiring additional skills, furthering their education, managing their finances wisely, and embracing continuous learning.
“A successful retirement is not achieved by chance; it is the product of careful planning, discipline and informed decision-making throughout one’s career,” he stated.
The IGP reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of police personnel, describing officers’ welfare as essential to effective policing.
He said reforms within the Nigeria Police Force are aimed at strengthening healthcare delivery, psychological support, professional development, capacity building, and retirement planning for officers.
Disu added that responsibility for the welfare of retired officers should not rest solely on government.
He appealed to the private sector, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, faith-based organisations and other Nigerians to support initiatives that improve the wellbeing of retired police personnel.
The police chief lauded the organisers of the programme, saying the initiative would promote better police-community relations while encouraging recognition, mentorship and welfare support for both serving and retired officers.
He congratulated officers recognised during the event, describing them as outstanding examples of courage, professionalism, discipline and selfless service.
Addressing retired officers, Disu thanked them for their years of dedication and sacrifice, assuring them that their service to the nation would always be remembered.
“The institution you helped to build continues to benefit from your contributions, and your wealth of experience remains an invaluable national asset.
“We honour your legacy and encourage you to remain active as mentors, community leaders and ambassadors of the noble ideals of policing,” he said.
