The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has urged police officers to prepare early for retirement while reaffirming his commitment to improving welfare for serving and retired personnel.

Disu says retirement planning should be a priority throughout an officer’s career.

He advises officers to acquire additional skills, pursue further education and make prudent financial decisions to ensure a smooth transition from active service.

According to the IGP, policing involves significant sacrifices, including long periods away from family and exposure to dangerous situations.

He stresses that retirement should not mark the end of an officer’s contribution to society, noting that retired personnel can continue to serve as mentors, community leaders and role models.

The IGP calls for increased support, welfare initiatives and sustainable opportunities for retired police officers, stressing that those who dedicated their lives to protecting the nation deserve dignity and purpose after active service.

Disu made the call on while delivering a 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 said the sacrifices made by police officers in safeguarding lives and property often go unrecognised despite the risks and personal hardships associated with the profession.

According to him, policing is not merely a job but a lifelong commitment to service, integrity and nation-building.

He noted that police officers routinely serve in difficult environments, spend extended periods away from their families and respond to emergencies under challenging circumstances, often placing their lives on the line in the service of the nation.

Disu also reiterated his administration’s commitment to improving healthcare, psychological support, professional development and retirement preparedness within the Nigeria Police Force.

He called on the private sector, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to support initiatives aimed at enhancing the welfare of retired police officers.

The event featured discussions on retirement planning and welfare enhancement, and the recognition of distinguished officers for their service and dedication.

“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.

The police chief emphasised that retirement should not be viewed as the end of relevance but as the beginning of another meaningful phase of life in which former officers can continue to contribute to national development through mentorship, community service, business and leadership roles.

He urged serving officers to begin planning for retirement early by acquiring additional skills, pursuing further education, making prudent financial decisions and embracing lifelong 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.

Disu also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of police personnel, describing officer welfare as a strategic necessity for effective policing.

He said ongoing reforms within the Nigeria Police Force are focused on enhancing healthcare services, psychological support, professional development, capacity building and retirement preparedness.

The IGP, however, stressed that ensuring the welfare of retired officers should not be left to government alone.

He called on the private sector, civil society organisations, traditional institutions, faith-based organisations and well-meaning Nigerians to support programmes aimed at improving the quality of life of retired police personnel.

Commending the organisers of the initiative, Disu said the programme would strengthen police-community relations while promoting recognition, mentorship and welfare support for serving and retired officers.

He further congratulated officers honoured during the event, describing them as shining examples of courage, discipline, professionalism and selfless service.

Addressing retired officers, the IGP expressed gratitude for their years of sacrifice and dedication, assuring them that their contributions to nation-building would not be forgotten.

“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.

The event featured the recognition of distinguished officers and discussions on retirement planning, welfare enhancement and opportunities for life after service in the Nigeria Police Force.