By Kelvin Adegbenga
The recent flag-off of the Nigeria Police Insurance Sensitisation Programme in the Federal Capital Territory and Nasarawa State Commands marks yet another milestone in the visionary leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, PhD, NPM.
Under his watch, the Nigeria Police Force has witnessed a renewed focus on the welfare, morale, and long-term financial security of its personnel. This commitment continues to redefine the essence of modern policing in Nigeria.
The maiden edition of the sensitisation programme, spearheaded by the Force Insurance Officer, ACP Ameh Lydia, is more than a bureaucratic exercise; it is a practical demonstration of IGP Egbetokun’s pledge to build a motivated, secure, and future-conscious Police Force.
By ensuring officers understand the workings of their insurance entitlements and benefits, the initiative fosters trust, awareness, and confidence among personnel who daily risk their lives to safeguard the nation.
IGP Egbetokun has consistently reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering dedication to personnel welfare. His leadership has proven that effective policing begins with officers who feel valued and protected, both on and off duty.
A well-supported police officer, after all, is better equipped to deliver professional and effective policing services to the nation.
One of the clearest reflections of this commitment came in September 2025, when the IGP presented cheques totalling over ₦21.17 billion to the next-of-kin of 1,574 deceased officers.
This exercise represented the 11th phase of insurance disbursements under his administration, a truly historic gesture of compassion and responsibility. Significantly, many of these payments covered claims dating back as far as 2015, which had remained unresolved for nearly a decade.
Such action speaks volumes about Egbetokun’s leadership style, one rooted in empathy, accountability, and justice for those who served with honour. Since assuming office, he has overseen the disbursement of a cumulative ₦24.2 billion in insurance claims, ensuring that families of fallen heroes receive the financial support they rightfully deserve.
This forward-looking approach goes beyond monetary compensation; it represents the institutionalization of a humane policing system where service and sacrifice are recognized, even in death.
It sends a powerful message to serving officers that their well-being and that of their loved ones are priorities of the Force’s top leadership.
IGP Egbetokun’s welfare-driven initiatives, such as the Police Insurance Sensitisation Programme, demonstrate a new era of policing, one where welfare is not an afterthought but a central pillar of reform.
His vision is clear: a Police Force that is not only efficient in crime fighting but also motivated, secure, and confident in the institution’s care for its members.
In appreciating the strides being made under IGP Egbetokun’s administration, it becomes evident that true police reform begins with people, not policies alone.
By investing in the well-being and future of officers, the IGP is laying the foundation for a more professional, compassionate, and service-oriented Nigeria Police Force, one that the nation can truly be proud of.
Kelvin Adegbenga is the National Coordinator of Integrity Youth Alliance and writes from Lagos. kelvinadegbenga@yahoo.com
