A civil society organization advocating for the welfare of retired security personnel, the Coalition for Dignity in Retirement (CDR), has raised alarm over the deteriorating conditions faced by retired officers of the Nigerian Police Force. In a statement released today, the group described the current pension system as a “national tragedy,” claiming it has failed thousands of deserving retirees who now live—and die—in extreme poverty.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja, CDR Executive Director, Mrs. Ngozi Ibrahim, condemned what she called the “institutional abandonment” of retired police officers who, after decades of loyal service, are left without access to basic necessities, medical care, or timely pension payments.
“Many of these heroes now beg to survive, some have been evicted from their homes, and too many have died waiting for what is rightfully theirs. It is shameful that those who once protected lives and property are now reduced to hardship and indignity,” said Mrs. Ibrahim.
The group pointed to systemic failures in the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS), alleging mismanagement, bureaucratic delays, and lack of transparency. They also criticized disparities in pension benefits between police retirees and other uniformed services.
The Coalition called on the Presidency, National Assembly, and the Ministry of Finance to prioritize pension reforms in the interest of justice and national security. “A nation that abandons its protectors undermines its own foundation,” Mrs. Ibrahim stressed.
CDR also announced plans for a nationwide advocacy march later this month, urging members of the public, human rights groups, and active-duty officers to join in solidarity.