CDHR to Federal Government: Increase Police Retirement Age and Address Poor Salaries to Tackle Insecurity
By Adamu Aliyu Aliyu/ABUJA//
The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) calls on the Federal Government of Nigeria to urgently review and improve the retirement age and salary structure of the Nigerian Police Force and other security agencies.
The current realities reveal that poor remuneration, inadequate welfare, and early retirement are among the major factors fueling corruption, low morale, and insecurity within the ranks of Nigeriaâs security institutions.
Security personnel, particularly in the police force, risk their lives daily yet retire early and poorly compensated, often without any sustainable post-service plan. Many are driven to engage in unethical practices just to survive, thereby undermining national security and eroding public trust.
Key Points Raised by CDHR:
Low salary and poor incentives create desperation and vulnerability among officers.
The current retirement age and lack of career progression weaken the structure and experience level in the force.
Corruption and human rights abuses within security agencies are symptoms of systemic neglect and economic hardship.
The government must stop treating security officers as expendable tools and start addressing the root causes of their frustration.
We strongly urge the Federal Government to:
1. Review and increase the retirement age of police officers and other security personnel.
2. Implement a living wage that reflects the risk and responsibility attached to their duties.
3. Provide comprehensive welfare, housing, health care, and retirement packages to encourage integrity and dedication.
Security is a national responsibility. When those who protect the people are themselves unprotected, the entire system becomes vulnerable.
The time to act is now. A secure nation begins with securing its protectors.
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