Retired Nigerian police officers protest for pension bill assent

Retired police officers and their families, organized under the Police Retired Officers Forum of Nigeria (PROF), staged a protest at the National Assembly in Abuja to demand the signing of the Police Exit Bill. The group is calling on President Bola Tinubu to approve the legislation, which would withdraw the Nigeria Police Force from the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS).

The bill was reportedly passed by the National Assembly on December 4, 2025, and transmitted to the President on March 16, 2026. Protesters argue the current CPS does not adequately meet their financial needs, citing low monthly pensions and insufficient lump sums. Forum leader Raphael Irowainu stated that the group is also seeking the establishment of a dedicated Police Pension Board to manage retirement benefits.

In addition to the National Assembly demonstration, protesters recently occupied the National Pension Commission headquarters. The group has announced plans to continue demonstrations at the Ministry of Finance, the Police Service Commission, and the US Embassy until the bill is signed or their concerns are addressed.