The Nation Newspaper

Category: News Update

Oyetola dismisses alleged interference in Osun local government affairs

Minister of Marine and Blue Economy Adegboyega Oyetola has dismissed allegations by the Osun State House of Assembly that he interfered in the administration of local governments, including the disbursement of their funds and the issuance of directives to banks regarding the operations of the third tier of government.

Reacting to the claims, the Minister’s Special Adviser on Media, Dr Bolaji Akinola, dismissed the allegations as fabricated and malicious, stressing that local governments across Nigeria enjoy full financial autonomy under the Constitution.

In a statement responding to a press release issued by the Speaker of the Osun State House of Assembly, Adewale Egbedun, on Sunday, February 1, 2026, Akinola described attempts to link Oyetola to local government finances as reckless propaganda aimed at diverting attention from the state government’s failures and ongoing legal challenges.

He said the minister has no constitutional or statutory role in the administration or disbursement of local government funds and has neither issued directives to banks nor interfered in the running of local councils in Osun State.

According to Akinola, the statement credited to the Speaker merely recycled what he described as discredited narratives earlier promoted by Governor Ademola Adeleke, characterising them as a desperate bid to unlawfully reassert state control over local government funds in defiance of binding court judgments.

He noted that the Osun State Government and the House of Assembly are uneasy with the constitutional reality that local governments possess full financial autonomy, as affirmed by the Supreme Court.

Akinola recalled the Supreme Court judgment of July 11, 2024, which unequivocally granted full financial autonomy to all local governments in Nigeria, affirming their independence and expressly barring state governors from interfering in their affairs or appropriating their funds.

He stressed that the judgment is final, binding and cannot be overturned through press statements or political threats.

He also referenced a subsisting judgment of the Court of Appeal delivered on February 10, 2025, which reinstated the duly elected local government chairmen in Osun State. He noted that the state government declined to appeal the ruling, rendering it final and enforceable, and conferring lawful authority on the reinstated chairmen to administer their councils.

Dismissing claims that the chairmen are “illegal,” Akinola described such assertions as false and intellectually dishonest, emphasising that they were duly elected and reinstated by a superior court of record.

He further alleged that the Osun State Government has filed no fewer than twelve separate court cases on the matter, creating administrative bottlenecks, and accused the Adeleke administration of instigating and sponsoring an eleven-month strike by local government workers to paralyse council operations and undermine their autonomy.

Akinola maintained that local governments have full authority to manage their funds independently of the governor or the state assembly, adding that they also have duly elected councillors who constitutionally constitute the legislative arm of local government administration.

He condemned what he described as deliberate misinformation by the Speaker of the House, accusing him of misrepresenting settled legal issues to mislead the public. He also cautioned Egbedun to exercise restraint in his public statements, particularly against making what he termed reckless remarks about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Akinola called on Nigerians, civil society organisations, and advocates of constitutional democracy to defend local government autonomy and resist what he described as attempts by the Osun State Government and House of Assembly to circumvent the Supreme Court judgment of July 11, 2024, insisting that the rule of law must prevail.

February 2, 2026
Immigration Service strengthens legal mechanism to address cyber-enabled crimes, smuggling of migrants

Following the deployment of cutting-edge technologies at the nation’s airports and borders, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Mrs Kemi Nanna Nandap, said on Monday that the Service would strengthen its legal mechanism to address cyber-enabled crimes and smuggling of migrants.

Mrs Nandap said it had become imperative to back up the huge investments in cutting-edge technology deployed to Nigerian borders and airports with legal instruments that would speedily punish crimes and criminalities in migration management.

She made the remarks while declaring open the inaugural Nigeria Immigration Service Law Week Conference at the Headquarters of the Service in Abuja.

The Comptroller-General, who commended the Legal Department of the NIS for putting the programme together, described the theme of the conference as apt and timely, considering the ongoing reforms in the Service.

The NIS Legal Week had the theme: “Leveraging technology and strengthening Legal operational framework for a secure and efficient Immigration Service “.

The Comptroller-General assured that the NIS would continue to demonstrate professionalism, transparency, and accountability in its operations, while being guided by the rule of law and extant statutory provisions of law in the exercise of its mandate.

She said, “We must strengthen our legal operational framework to address emerging issues such as cyber-enabled crimes, smuggling of migrants, and trafficking in persons.

“The Nigeria Immigration Service is committed to working with relevant stakeholders to combat these transnational crimes and ensure that our borders are secured. We will continue to build the capacity of our officers to investigate, prosecute, and prevent these crimes.”

Mrs Nandap, who was represented by the Deputy Comptroller-General in Charge of Human Resources Management, DCG Afolayan Ayeni, said the Legal Week would mark “the beginning of a new era of excellence and enhance professionalism in the agency.

“The Nigerian Immigration Service is committed to upholding the highest standard of professionalism, transparency, and accountability.

“Our goal is to ensure that we provide secure, efficient services to the public while protecting our borders. The Legal unit has a vital role in this endeavour,” Mrs Nandap said.

Read Also: Immigration Service rolls out enhanced passport tracking feature

The Director of Legal Services in the NIS, Mrs Oluwatoyin Yusuf, said the programme was a significant milestone in the history of the Service, moreso as the theme speaks directly to the realities of time and the strategic positioning of the NIS.

She said, “The theme speaks directly to the realities of our time and the strategic position and mandate of the Service. We must continually adapt our legal and operational systems to match the pace of technological advancement and emerging global challenges.

“Our role as the Legal Services Unit is not only to interpret and apply the law, but also to ensure that innovation within the Service is firmly anchored on a sound legal framework that promotes efficiency, transparency, accountability, and respect for the rule of law.

“It is therefore imperative that our officers are equipped with up-to-date technological knowledge, sound judgment, and unwavering legal and ethical standards. The Law Week, therefore, provides a valuable platform for reflection, learning, and professional engagement.”

Yusuf commended the Comptroller-General of the Service for her support and encouragement in approving the Legal Week for the first time in the Service, saying that it would allow the department to identify gaps, examine the existing framework, and explore avenues for best practices.

February 2, 2026
FG, states, councils share ₦1.969tr December revenue at FAAC meeting

The Federal Government, state governments, and local government councils have shared a total of ₦1.969 trillion as revenue generated in December 2025 from the Federation Account.

This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Director of Press and Public Relations in the Office of the Accountant General of the Federation, Bawa Mokwa, on Monday after the January 2026 meeting of the Federation Account Allocation Committee, which was held in Abuja.

According to the statement, the ₦1.969 trillion shared among the three tiers of government was made up of ₦1.084 trillion from statutory revenue, ₦846.507 billion from Value Added Tax, and ₦38.110 billion from the Electronic Money Transfer Levy.

The FAAC communiqué explained that a total gross revenue of ₦2.585 trillion was recorded in December 2025. From this amount, ₦104.697 billion was deducted as the cost of collection, while ₦511.585 billion went into transfers, refunds, and savings, leaving ₦1.969 trillion for distribution.

The committee said gross statutory revenue for the month stood at ₦1.631 trillion. This was lower than the ₦1.736 trillion recorded in November 2025, showing a drop of ₦105.202 billion.

However, revenue from Value Added Tax rose sharply. FAAC reported that ₦913.957 billion was generated from VAT in December 2025, compared to ₦563.042 billion in November, an increase of ₦350.915 billion.

From the total amount shared, the Federal Government received ₦653.500 billion. The 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory got a combined ₦706.469 billion, while the 774 local government councils received ₦513.272 billion. Oil-producing states were also paid ₦96.083 billion as their 13 percent derivation from mineral revenue.

Breaking down the statutory revenue of ₦1.084 trillion, the Federal Government took ₦520.807 billion, the states received ₦264.160 billion, and local governments got ₦203.656 billion. The ₦96.083 billion derivation was also paid to the benefiting states from this portion.

From the ₦846.507 billion VAT pool, the Federal Government received ₦126.976 billion. The states shared ₦423.254 billion, while local governments received ₦296.277 billion.

Read Also: Edo doesn’t rely on FAAC to pay salaries- Commissioner

On the ₦38.110 billion generated from the Electronic Money Transfer Levy, the Federal Government got ₦5.717 billion. The states received ₦19.055 billion, and the local government councils were allocated ₦13.338 billion.

FAAC also gave an update on how different revenue sources performed during the month. It said income from Companies Income Tax, Capital Gains Tax, and Stamp Duties, as well as Import Duty and VAT, recorded strong increases.

At the same time, the committee noted that revenue from Excise Duty, Petroleum Profit Tax, Hydrocarbon Tax, and the Electronic Money Transfer Levy declined. Oil and gas royalties, as well as Common External Tariff levies and fees, recorded only slight increases.

The monthly FAAC allocation remains a major source of funding for many states and local governments, especially for paying workers’ salaries and running basic services.

The latest distribution is expected to support government activities across the country in the coming weeks.

February 2, 2026
Tinubu orders clear sharing of power subsidy costs

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed all Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to use existing electricity sector laws to make the sharing of power subsidy costs among the Federal, State, and Local Governments clear, practical, and open in the 2026 budget process.

This was disclosed by the Director-General of the Budget Office of the Federation, Dr. Tanimu Yakubu, during a keynote address at the start of a training programme for MDAs on the 2026 post-budget preparation using the Government Integrated Financial Management Information System and the Budget Preparation System in Abuja on Monday.

Yakubu said the President wants the burden of electricity subsidies to be clearly shared so that no level of government is left carrying hidden or unpaid costs.

“Subsidy costs must be explicit, tracked and funded, so they do not return as arrears, liquidity crises or hidden liabilities in the power market,” he said.

He explained that when any level of government decides to keep electricity prices low for citizens, the financial responsibility for that decision must be clearly agreed upon and enforced.

“It also means that if any tier of government chooses affordability interventions, the funding responsibilities must be clear, agreed, and enforceable. This is not punishment. It is alignment,” Yakubu said.

According to him, fair sharing of the burden will encourage better performance in the power sector and stronger support for protecting vulnerable consumers.

“When everyone carries a fair share of the cost, everyone also has an incentive to support cost-reflective efficiency, targeted protection for the vulnerable, and a power market that can actually deliver,” he said.

Yakubu told MDAs that they must now clearly show all subsidy-related costs in their budget plans and avoid pushing unpaid obligations into the power market as debts that later create problems for electricity companies and consumers.

Beyond power subsidies, he said, the Federal Government is changing how projects are treated in the 2026 budget. He noted that projects must be ready to be delivered and, where needed, ready to attract financing before they are included in the budget.

“If it cannot be implemented, it should not be proposed. If it cannot be measured, it should not be defended,” he said.

He warned that listing many projects without proper funding and planning often leads to disappointment for citizens who expect real results on the ground.

“A long list of projects is not a development strategy. It is often a map of disappointment. What citizens feel is delivery—completed roads, reliable power, functional schools, working hospitals,” Yakubu said.

He explained that the government is now focusing on proper project financing, which means that every project must be carefully planned, cost, and matched with a clear source of funding, whether from the federal budget, partnerships with the private sector, or other financial arrangements.

Yakubu said MDAs must show that their projects are ready, with designs, approvals, procurement plans, and clear timelines, as well as explain how each project will be funded and what results Nigerians should expect.

On government spending rules, he disclosed that President Tinubu has directed a review of the Fiscal Responsibility framework to make it stronger and better suited to current economic conditions.

“Fiscal rules are not a slogan. They are the guardrails of the government. Without guardrails, spending becomes impulsive, debt becomes casual, and the budget becomes a statement of intent rather than a tool of delivery,” he said.

He explained that the review will lead to clearer limits on spending, stronger reporting, better control of future financial risks, and a closer link between long-term planning and yearly budgets.

“For MDAs, this changes the conversation. You will not only be asked what you want to spend. You will be asked how it fits the fiscal rules, how it affects sustainability, and what measurable results it will deliver,” Yakubu said.

He urged MDAs to build their proposals around available funds, clearly explain their priorities, and disclose any risks, especially future costs that could fall on the government.

Yakubu also stressed again that the cost of electricity subsidies can no longer be treated as the responsibility of the Federal Government alone.

“Let me be direct. If we want a stable power sector, we must pay for the choices we make. When tariffs are held below cost, a gap is created. That gap is a subsidy. And a subsidy is a bill,” he said.

He added that when the benefits of such decisions are shared across different levels of government, the costs must also be shared in a clear and agreed way.

As part of the 2026 budget process, Yakubu said all MDA proposals will be tested to ensure they match national priorities, can be carried out, offer value for money, and respect the country’s financial limits.

He said the overall goal is to make the 2026 budget focus on completing projects and solving real problems for Nigerians, rather than creating long lists of plans that are never fully delivered.

February 2, 2026
Why Ondo is yet to generate, distribute electricity independently, by Aiyedatiwa

Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa has explained why the state is yet to commence ‘independent electricity generation’ despite the transfer of regulatory oversight to the state by the federal government.

Aiyedatiwa said his administration is not relenting in jumping at the opportunity provided by the federal government at ensuring the state generates electricity independently and distributes for the benefit of residents of the state.

Last year, the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) announced the completion of the transfer of regulatory oversight to four states in the country.

NERC listed the states to include: Enugu, Ekiti, Ondo, and Imo, which are now fully responsible for the regulation of their electricity markets.

Speaking to journalists at the event to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Ondo state, Governor Aiyedatiwa said that his administration is presently concentrating on strengthening regulation, improving distribution and partnering with existing power distribution companies to enhance supply to residents.

He explained that although the state does not currently generate its own electricity, it has established structures to oversee and regulate the sector through the Ondo State Electricity Regulatory Commission, which interfaces directly with distribution companies operating within the state.

The governor admitted that the state has not started generating electricity independently but emphasised that his government has been actively engaging the Distribution Companies (DISCOs) to ensure better service delivery and protect consumers from exploitation.

“Yes, we are not generating one for now, but in terms of regulation and distribution, we are very active,” he added.

Read Also: Ribadu, Aiyedatiwa, others receive MAU’s honorary doctorate degrees

Aiyedatiwa added, “We have been doing a lot in that sector. You can see that all the DISCOs operating in Ondo State, we are working together with them.

“We have the Ondo State Electricity Regulatory Commission. We regulate and interface with them, so we are in charge of our own electricity.”

Aiyedatiwa highlighted the introduction of the ‘O’ Datiwa Meter’ initiative as one of the key interventions by his administration to address the challenge of estimated billing, popularly known as “crazy bills,” imposed on consumers.

According to him, the state government had to subsidise the distribution of meters to residents to ensure transparency and fairness in electricity charges.

“Don’t forget the O’ Datiwa meter that we took up when they were giving crazy bills to our people. We had to take it upon ourselves to subsidise the distribution of meters to our people,” he said.

He noted that the intervention has helped reduce disputes between consumers and service providers while improving accountability in billing.

The governor also said electricity supply has improved in several parts of the state due to sustained engagement with the distribution companies, stressing that many communities now enjoy more stable and consistent power.

“If you look at it, electricity has been very, very constant in some parts of Ondo state since we came on board. It is because of the engagement we have been having with the distribution company,” he stated.

Aiyedatiwa referenced the band classification system introduced by electricity providers, explaining that customers on higher bands receive longer hours of supply.

“Yes, there is Band A, Band B, and all of that. If you are on Band A, you can be having up to 18 hours in a day out of 24 hours, if I am not mistaken,” he said.

He acknowledged that electricity tariffs remain high for many residents but expressed optimism that costs would reduce over time as the system improves.

“Over time, just like when GSM started, it was expensive, but today it is cheap. It is the same thing. So, with time, we are going to improve on our administration, and then it becomes cheaper for all,” he explained.

The governor further pointed to improved electricification and lighting across parts of Akure and other areas, noting that both solar-powered lights and those connected to the national grid are functioning due to better supply.

Aiyedatiwa reiterated that while independent power generation remains a future goal, the immediate priority is to stabilise distribution, strengthen regulation, and protect consumers from excessive billing.

He, however, assured the residents of the government’s commitment to making power more reliable and affordable.

February 2, 2026
Police urge NLC to shelve Tuesday’s planned protest

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command on Monday advised the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) FCT chapter to rescheduled Tuesday’s planned peaceful protest.

NLC had fixed Tuesday to protest over unpaid allowances to workers of the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA).

A statement issued by the FCT Police Public Relations Officer, SP Josehine Adeh said the development is in the overriding interest of public safety.

Read Also: NLC, TUC issue FG 14-day ultimatum overdelayed implementation of CONHESS

Adeh said, “The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command is aware of a planned peaceful protest by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) FCT Council, scheduled to hold tomorrow, Tuesday, 3rd February 2026, within the Federal Capital Territory.

“While the Command recognizes and respects the constitutional rights of citizens to peaceful assembly and protest, and remains committed to providing adequate security for all lawful activities, intelligence reports at the disposal of the Police indicate plans by the proscribed Islamic Movement of Nigeria and other non-state actors to infiltrate and hijack the protest for purposes inimical to public peace and security.

“In view of the above, and in the overriding interest of public safety, the FCT Police Command respectfully appeals to the organizers of the planned protest to consider rescheduling the activity to a later date and time. This measure is aimed at forestalling any breakdown of law and order, while also ensuring that the rights of other residents to safety, freedom of movement, and the conduct of lawful daily activities are not infringed upon.

“The Command assures residents of the Federal Capital Territory of its unwavering commitment to the protection of lives and property and urges all citizens to continue to cooperate with law enforcement agencies in the collective effort to maintain peace and security.”

February 2, 2026
Lagos warns content creators against using children in harmful online content

The Lagos State Government has issued a stern warning to content creators, influencers and digital media producers over the use of children in online content that violates child protection laws, saying offenders risk criminal prosecution.

The warning was contained in a joint statement released by the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, and the Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA), Mrs. Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi.

The government said the directive followed growing concerns about the portrayal and involvement of minors in digital content that could be harmful, exploitative or degrading, particularly on social media platforms.

According to the statement, children are a legally protected and vulnerable group under Nigerian law and must not be exposed to content that undermines their dignity, safety or psychological wellbeing.

“Involving minors in content that depicts abuse, sexual themes, harmful stereotypes or unsafe scenarios is not only unethical but also contrary to existing laws designed to protect children,” the statement read.

The government stressed that creating, distributing or profiting from content that sexualises, exploits or endangers minors constitutes a criminal offence under several legal frameworks.

Read Also: Content creator Olajide Owolabi celebrates

It cited Sections 25(1) and 26 of the Lagos State Child’s Rights Law (2015), which prohibit exploitative child labour and all forms of child abuse, as well as Sections 135–139 and 141 of the Criminal Law of Lagos State (2015), which deal with sexual offences against children.

The statement also referenced Section 23 of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act (2015), which criminalises child pornography and related online offences, and Section 24 of the same Act, which prohibits cyberstalking and online harassment. In addition, Section 32 of the Child’s Rights Act provides for up to 14 years’ imprisonment for the sexual abuse or exploitation of a child.

Reaffirming the state’s position, the Lagos State Government said it maintains zero tolerance for all forms of child abuse and will work closely with law enforcement agencies to ensure strict compliance with existing laws.

“We will continue to engage relevant stakeholders and take necessary action to address violations of child protection laws when they occur,” the statement said.

Content creators were urged to familiarise themselves with applicable legal provisions and to prioritise the safety, dignity and overall wellbeing of children in all forms of creative expression.

The government also encouraged members of the public to report cases of child abuse through designated reporting channels provided, stressing that child protection is a shared responsibility.

February 2, 2026
No nation can thrive without investment in Youths – Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu has said that no nation could thrive without deliberate investment in its youths.

According to the President, who represented by the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Sa’id-Ahmad, Nigerians should not lack quality education due to financial limitations.

Tinubu made the disclosure at the 34th Convocation ceremony and 43rd Founders Day of the Federal University of Technology (FUT), Minna on Sunday.

The President noted that over the past 43 years, the university had distinguished itself as a centre of excellence in science, engineering innovation and applied research.

He said that the administration has expanded access to education through targeted infrastructure investments and the implementation of the student loan scheme.

Prof. Farouk Kuta, Vice-Chancellor of the University, said the ceremony stands as a powerful affirmation of the university community.

He said the community was defined by resilience, creativity, and unwavering dedication to the advancement of knowledge and service to humanity.

Kuta said that the past year recorded exceptional progress, as the university ranked the seventh best university in Nigeria and emerged as the highest ranked specialised university.

He said that the university ranked among the top 10 best in Nigeria and 68th in Africa.

He noted that the strategic expansion of the institution was a decisive step toward fulfilling its mandate as a technology-driven university committed to solving societal challenges.

Read Also: Tinubu, Atiku hail Fela as global icon after Grammy Lifetime honour

This, he added, was particularly in the area of training of healthcare professionals and medical technologists in the country.

He stated that the institution remained committed to the merit and welfare of both academic and non-academic staff.

“Over 146 senior non-teaching staff and 110 junior staff were promoted, while the appointments of 22 staff were confirmed.

”Also, in creating an enabling environment, the school clinic and sports complex were renovated,” he added.

The V-C urged the graduates to mark their transition from learners to alumni and solution providers.

The institution’s Pro- Chancellor and Chairman of the governing council, Dr Mohammed Santuraki, commended the President on his reforms in enhancing steady progress.

He said he align with the Tinubu administration in ensuring national growth.

Santuraki also appreciated Gov. Umar Bago of Niger for donating N100 million towards the construction of female hostel for medical students.

He also appreciated the visionary leadership of the V-C’s prudent management of resources, while urging the graduating students to be good ambassadors of the University in their careers.

The overall best graduating student from the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Koter Oluwadamilola, said the moment was a testament to perseverance, faith, and unity that carried them through the journey.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the institution graduated 5,297 students for the 2024/2025 academic session.

(NAN)

February 2, 2026
NLC, TUC plan peaceful solidarity rally Feb. 3

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) say they will stage a peaceful solidarity rally on Feb. 3 in support of the Joint Union Action Committee (JUAC).

The unions announced this in a joint statement signed by Mr Benson Upah, General Secretary of the NLC, and Mr Nuhu Toro, Secretary General of the TUC, in Abuja.

The solidarity is in support of the strike by Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) workers, led by JUAC, over unpaid salaries.

Workers under JUAC commenced an indefinite strike on Jan. 19, shutting down key administrative offices, including the FCTA Secretariat and the FCDA.

The strike followed the expiration of a seven-day ultimatum issued on Jan. 7, demanding that the FCTA management address long-standing labour and welfare grievances.

According to union, the rally is to reaffirm labour’s collective resolve that an injury to one worker remains an injury to all within the Nigerian labour movement.

“The action will send a clear message that labour will resist all forms of intimidation and injustice against workers,” they said.

The unions said the struggle was legitimate, non-negotiable and would be sustained until justice was achieved.

They added that their support for JUAC members remained total and unwavering.

Read Also: NLC, TUC issue FG 14-day ultimatum overdelayed implementation of CONHESS

They urged JUAC members to remain steadfast, courageous and united in the defence of their rights.

The NLC and TUC said the planned rally was aimed at demonstrating collective resistance against injustice.

They added that the peaceful action would be directed to the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA), insisting the rally would be lawful and peaceful.

They directed all affiliates and state councils to mobilise members massively for the rally, adding that intimidation and repression would not weaken workers’ resolve.

They reiterated that workers’ rights were never given but won through collective struggle.

The unions assured workers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) that they would not be abandoned. (NAN)

February 2, 2026
NPF Pensions pays N97.5b to 30,370 police retirees

The Nigeria Police Fund (NPF) Pensions Limited has paid N97.5 billion retirement benefits to 30,370 retirees.

Acting Managing Director, Mr. Abdulkareem Gezawa, said death benefits amounting to N39.57 billion have been paid to 8,847 next-of-kin, while 25,572 retirees are currently receiving monthly pensions valued at over N1.56 billion.

Speaking at the 2026 pre-retirement seminar organised by NPF Pensions Limited in Lagos, he reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to ensuring the timely and efficient payment of pensions and other entitlements to retired police officers.

Gezawa said: “Since inception, NPF Pensions has paid benefits to a total of 30,370 retirees, amounting to N97.5 billion.”

READ ALSO: Mutfwang, Plateau APC and 2027 battle

He emphasised that the timely and proper submission of required documentation remains crucial to preventing delays in benefit payments, noting that some pension funds remain unclaimed due to incomplete or late documentation.

Gezawa urged prospective retirees to take full advantage of the seminar and pay close attention to presentations designed to guide them through the retirement process.

The Acting Managing Director also revealed that police authorities are pursuing a proposal to peg police pensions at a minimum of 80 per cent of retirees’ last monthly salaries. Although the proposal is yet to be approved, he said it is aimed at addressing long-standing challenges associated with police pensions.

Assistant Commissioner of Police and Force Insurance Officer, ACP Lydia Ameh, assured participants that their benefits would be paid as and when due, provided documentation is properly completed, and Pension Fund Administrators (PFAs) are correctly transferred.

Commissioner of Police in charge of Pensions at the Force Headquarters, Abuja, DCP Yusuf Sani Doki, described the seminar as a crucial platform for officers approaching retirement to prepare emotionally, psychologically and financially for life after service.

He noted that retirement often comes with significant challenges, particularly as it coincides with old age and health concerns, stressing the need for early preparation. Doki explained that police officers are eligible for pension and gratuity upon attaining the age of 60 or completing between 10 and 35 years of service.

“This meeting provides a valuable opportunity to review your achievements and challenges as police officers about to retire, prepare for life after service, and celebrate your contributions to the nation,” he said.

He congratulated the retirees for their years of service, encouraged prayers for officers who lost their lives in active duty, and expressed optimism that participants would make positive impacts in their post-retirement lives.

As part of the programme, NPF Pensions Limited also provided medical check-ups for prospective retirees, underscoring its holistic approach to retirement planning.

DCP Doki commended the management of NPF Pensions for organising what he described as a crucial and timely intervention for police officers in the South-West region and beyond.

The 2026 pre-retirement seminar, which kicked off at the Event Centre, Alausa, Lagos, is part of a nationwide programme scheduled to hold across the six geopolitical zones of the country.

The next session is slated for Kano, covering the Northwest zone, this month.

February 2, 2026