Youth group, Youths In Politics (YIP), has urged President Bola Tinubu to assent to the Nigeria Police Force Pension Board Bill without delay.

The proposed law seeks to establish an independent pension board and remove police personnel from the Contributory Pension Scheme.

YIP president and Corporate Affairs Commission ambassador, Micheal Nwabufo, made the appeal on Monday in Lagos.

Mr Nwabufo, known as Mike Premium, said the bill would address long-standing welfare challenges within the Nigeria Police Force.

“We are here pleading with President Bola Tinubu to sign the Police Pension Board Bill as urgently as possible,” he said.

He said improved welfare and post-service security for officers had become imperative.

“Many dedicate up to 35 years of their lives under demanding and hazardous conditions,” he said.

He lamented that many retired officers faced financial instability and unreliable support systems despite years of sacrifice.

“This reality is deeply concerning, especially against the modest compensation structure within the force,” Mr Nwabufo added.

He warned that uncertainty about retirement could weaken morale and professionalism among serving officers.

“When officers feel financially secure and valued, their conduct and engagement with citizens will improve,” he said.

Mr Nwabufo expressed optimism that signing and implementing the bill would mark a turning point for policing.

He said the legislation would boost motivation, institutional confidence and service delivery nationwide.

“Strengthening police welfare is a strategic investment in national security, public trust and societal stability,” he said.

YIP vice president, Rahmah Zakareeyay, also called for prioritising officers’ wellbeing.

“They are humans too. The mental health of police officers should be prioritised,” she said.

Mr Nwabufo further urged citizens to stop speaking negatively about Nigeria.

“Whatever we face in public offices and policing reflects our society. The youths must be involved instead of complaining. We should stop abusing and cursing our nation.

“Let us put our hands together to make the country work,” he said.

He also urged public office holders to shun corruption, greed and materialism, noting that Nigeria’s wealth had not benefited most citizens.

The bill has been passed by the National Assembly and awaits presidential assent. 

(NAN)