A group of disgruntled Nigeria Police Force officers under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) delivered a bold ultimatum: if reforms do not come by July end, they will launch a nationwide strike starting August 1, 2025. They characterize the current pension setup as “slavery-like” and threaten to cripple police operations across the country.

In an open letter to top government officials, including President Tinubu, the VP, Speaker, Senate President, Ministry of Police Affairs, Police Service Commission, and the Inspector-General, the officers said that anyone found in uniform during the strike would face violence.

“This shouldn’t surprise you; you know how the scheme has enslaved us for years,” the letter states. “We give you until next month’s end to restore defined benefit pensions like those in the military, EFCC, NIA, or face shutdown. From August 1, 2025, any officer in uniform at work risks death or permanent injury.”

What the CPS Means for Police

Since 2004, the CPS has required employees and the federal government to contribute a fixed percentage of salaries into individual Retirement Savings Accounts managed by private Pension Fund Administrators. Proponents argue it prevents unpaid pensions and ensures pre-funded retirement. However, police rank-and-file claim that it leaves them financially exposed post-service, with inadequate monthly payouts—sometimes less than ₦50,000—despite long service and often dangerous assignments.

They compare their plight to colleagues in the military, EFCC and other agencies, who function under the old Defined Benefit Scheme (DBS) guaranteeing predetermined pensions and allowances. They insist that only a return to DBS will correct the “slavery pension scheme” they endure.

Legislative Pressure Builds

This is not the first time the issue surfaced. In June 2023, the Senate passed the Police Pension Board Bill to remove police from CPS and reinstate a specialized pension board. However, stakeholders like the National Pension Commission and Pension Fund Operators Association (PenOp) oppose the move, arguing it would impose massive fiscal burdens—requiring an estimated ₦3.5 trillion annually—and destabilize pension assets totaling over ₦20 trillion.

In addition, observers warn that allowing police to exit CPS could prompt other groups to follow, fragmenting the pension framework and undermining hard-won reforms.

Top Brass Add Their Voice

IGP Kayode Egbetokun and PSC Chair DIG Hashimu Argungu have acknowledged the hardships police retirees face—delays, low payouts, and limited benefits. Egbetokun even set up a review committee to assess CPS impact and has toured commands and retirement homes to gather feedback . Argungu said the CPS lacks structure and fails to meet officers’ realities, and proposed transitioning to defined benefit arrangement.

These officials highlight that while CPS ensures sustainability, it fails to deliver dignity or meet the basic pension needs of officers after years of service.

A Clash of Views on Sustainability

PenOp CEO Oguche Agudah strongly warns that switching to DBS would burden the federal budget, necessitating ₦3.5 trillion annually and reduce investable pension assets. He also warns the move would set a dangerous precedent. PenCom echoes that reform within CPS—like enhanced contributions or improved management—can address grievances without dismantling the system .

Why Police Say CPS Fails Their Need

Police retirees under CPS often receive as little as ₦25,000–₦75,000 monthly, leading to poverty and indignity in retirement. Many wait months—or even years—for lump sums. Compared to their counterparts—the military, EFCC and DSS—they see CPS as unfair and financially punishing .

These conditions fuel impatience among active officers, driving demands for policy reversal.

Stakes are High: Strike Could Hamper National Security

Nigeria Police Force employs over 300,000 officers—smarting under rising national insecurity. A strike that shuts them down affects patrols, investigations, community safety, and emergency response. As kidnapping, armed banditry and cybercrime worsen, an inactive police force could destabilize fragile regions.

Government’s Response Still Pending

To date, neither the presidency nor the Ministry of Police Affairs has responded. July’s looming deadline builds national tension, especially as leaders face a choice: meet CPS reform demands or risk nationwide unrest initiated by those entrusted with law enforcement.

Pathways to Resolution

Experts suggest solutions that balance sustainability with equity:

• Within-scheme improvements: Gradually increase government contribution percentages, offer retirees enhanced lump sums, and introduce age-adjusted payouts .

• Tiered package for police: Retain CPS but build a top-up fund for police, reflecting occupational risk and service length.

• Careful roll-out of DBS: If moving police entirely to DBS, phase it over years with actuarial review, guaranteed funding allocations, and legal safeguards.

• Public sector engagement: Engage PenCom, pension operators, police leadership, unions, legislators and finance ministry in transparent dialogue for consensus.

A Turning Point for Police Welfare

July’s deadline and the strike threat mark a crucial moment. The government risks operational sabotage if it fails to act. But rash pension reversals could destabilize national finances.

Resolution demands leadership, compromise, and structural change. Strengthening CPS while addressing fairness concerns may yet offer a lasting solution.

Conclusion: Urgent Reform Needed

Nigeria stands at a crossroads. Police discontent over pensions cuts at broader public sector morale and finances. The strike ultimatum grows, but hinges on a system that is both financially sustainable and just to those who serve.

Whether the government listens—or pays the price—will significantly shape not just police welfare, but national cohesion, security, and trust in institutions.