IGP presents N2.32bn to families of fallen police officers

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu has presented cheques totalling N2,317,177,094 to 2,971 beneficiaries and next-of-kin of deceased police officers under the Group Life Assurance, Group Personal Accident and IGP Family Welfare schemes.

The beneficiaries are families of officers who died in service and are covered under the 2017/2018, 2018/2019, 2020/2021, 2021/2022, 2022/2023 and 2024/2025 insurance policy years.

The payment also includes outstanding balances recovered from insurance companies following earlier partial settlements.

Speaking at the presentation on Thursday in Abuja, IGP Disu said the exercise reflects the Nigeria Police Force’s responsibility to families of officers who lost their lives in the service of the nation.

He said although no financial payment could replace a lost loved one, the benefits would provide practical support to affected families and reaffirm the Force’s commitment to their welfare.

The IGP stated that police personnel continue to operate in a challenging security environment and assured families of fallen officers that the Force would continue to pursue legitimate measures to support them and their dependants.

Reaffirming welfare as a priority of his administration, IGP Disu said the Force would continue initiatives to improve personnel welfare, working conditions, healthcare, accommodation and other benefits due to officers and their families.

He also directed the Force Insurance Unit to intensify sensitisation across Commands and Formations to ensure officers and their families understand their insurance entitlements and the procedures for accessing them.

The Force Insurance Officer, ACP Lydia Ameh, commended the IGP for prioritising the resolution of outstanding claims and improving access to insurance benefits.

She said the recovery of pending entitlements and improved claims administration would help ensure that eligible beneficiaries receive their legitimate benefits.

The IGP further urged insurance partners to ensure prompt settlement of legitimate claims, stressing that timely payments could provide critical support to families who have lost their breadwinners.