The Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun has presented insurance benefits cheques worth over N1Billion to 420 families of slain and wounded policemen in Abuja.
The IGP who presented the cheques alongside police management team noted that the beneficiaries are families of deceased Police Officers who died while in active service during the policy years 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 under the Group Life Assurance policy and the IGP Family Welfare Insurance Scheme.
According to him, the Group Life Assurance scheme is a welfare package that was established as a result of the amendment of the 2004 Pension Reform Act in the year 2014 and it is being funded by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
“Equally, the IGP Family Welfare Insurance Scheme, which is being funded by the Nigeria Police Force, was established in 2017 to relieve the hardship usually being faced by the deceased’s immediate family before the death benefits are ready for payment.
“I recall that on 14th July 2023, I had the privilege of flagging off the presentation of financial assistance to a total of 68 families of deceased officers who tragically lost their lives in the line of duty. These individuals were duly captured under the Group Life Assurance Scheme 2022/2023 policy year.
“The total sum of cheques distributed during that solemn occasion amounted to five hundred and thirty-five million, six hundred and eighteen thousand, seven hundred and eighty-eight Naira forty-four Kobo (N535,618,788.44k).
“Today’s presentation involves the distribution of cheques worth one billion, three hundred and two million, five hundred and ninety-seven thousand, two hundred and sixty-nine Naira and fifty-four Kobo (N1,302,597,269.54k) only to four hundred and twenty (420) families and next of kin of our fallen heroes as the insurance benefits for the insured periods of 2021/2022 and 2022/2023 under the Group Life Assurance Scheme and 2021/2022 policy year for the IGP Family Welfare Insurance Scheme.”
He noted that the Nigeria Police Force is firmly grounded in the belief that every human life is inherently valuable, and the well-being of Officers remains their paramount concern.
He said: “Our commitment to promptly fulfilling our obligations, including the provision of insurance and other benefits to those officers and their families who have made significant sacrifices for our beloved nations is an expression of our deep appreciation for the bravery and dedication of our Officers.
“This tangible supports serves to boost their morale and underscores our steadfast dedication to their welfare and that of their families’. It is a testament to our recognition of their sacrifices and an assurance that their service is held in the highest regard.
“This milestone we celebrate today, marks only the initial step in our journey. I want to assure you that we are steadfast in our resolve to further enhance welfare packages for all members of the Police family, irrespective of their status – whether actively serving, retired, or those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
“Our objective is to establish welfare support that cement the bonds within the Police community, creating an environment where every officer feels not only valued but also protected and motivated to deliver their utmost in service to our nation.
“In extending my heartfelt condolences to the families of the deceased Officers, I am aware that nothing can fill the void left behind by their loved ones. However, I implore you to make good use of these funds to address your needs and other challenges, particularly in the context of your financial stability.
“As demonstrated by these insurance schemes, I wish to assure you of the unwavering commitment of the Force under my leadership in providing adequate welfare for serving members and the families of our departed heroes.”
Force Insurance Officer, CSP Lydia Ameh commended the IGP for his visionary leadership, giant strides and for showing total zeal and commitment to the welfare of officers and men of the police force since assumption of office.
She noted that the foresight and support of the IGP and the police management team yielded the positive results for the benefits of slain officers.