By Erewunmi Peace

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a groundbreaking welfare package that grants lifetime salary benefits to retiring senior officers in the country’s paramilitary services.

The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during the 2025 Ministerial Retreat held in Abuja. According to the minister, the policy will take effect immediately and is designed to motivate senior officers and reward decades of service to the nation.

“President Tinubu has graciously approved a lifetime salary benefit for officers retiring from the rank of Deputy Controller, Comptroller, Commandant-General, and above. This is part of the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at boosting morale and improving welfare in the security sector,” the minister stated.

Who Qualifies for the Lifetime Salary Benefit?

The policy covers top-ranking officials across paramilitary agencies, including:

Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS)

Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC)

Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS)

Federal Fire Service (FFS)

Why the Policy Matters

This move is seen as a strategic step toward enhancing security sector reform, ensuring loyalty, and curbing corruption by rewarding officers who have served with integrity.

Public Reactions

The policy has sparked mixed reactions among Nigerians. While many commend the government for prioritizing welfare, others argue that the funds could be channeled into pensions for lower-ranking officers or infrastructure development.