Retired Police Officers Protest at Presidential Villa Over Delayed Pension Reform

Retired Police Officers Protest at Presidential Villa Over Delayed Pension Reform

Retired officers of the Nigeria Police Force on Monday staged a protest at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, demanding urgent action on a long-delayed pension reform they say continues to affect their welfare and dignity.

The retirees, operating under the Police Retired Officers Forum of Nigeria, marched in procession from the Three Arms Zone to the Villa entrance, where they blocked Gate 8 and disrupted vehicular movement. Many of the elderly protesters sat on mats laid along the road, while others stood holding placards and flags, calling for immediate intervention.

At the centre of their grievance is a bill passed by the National Assembly in December 2025 seeking to remove the Nigeria Police Force from the Contributory Pension Scheme. The bill was transmitted to the President in March 2026 but is yet to be signed into law, a delay the retirees say has prolonged their hardship and uncertainty.

The protesters argue that remaining under the current pension arrangement places retired police officers at a disadvantage compared to other security agencies that have already been exempted. They insist that the continued delay undermines their post-service welfare and erodes trust in government commitments.

Despite efforts by security personnel at the Villa to disperse the crowd, the retirees remained at the gate, insisting on direct engagement with the President. Some were seen seated on the ground while others sang solidarity songs and chanted demands for justice.

Family members, including spouses and children, also joined the protest, drawing attention to the wider social and economic impact of the pension issue on households.

This latest demonstration adds to a series of similar protests by retired police officers in recent months, including earlier actions at the National Assembly and the Force Headquarters, as pressure continues to mount on the federal government to resolve the matter.

Blessing Anolaba
Editorial & Creative Correspondent
A storyteller and journalist passionate about telling stories for policy change and impact.