The Abia State Police Command has presented insurance cheques worth over ₦17.66 million to 21 beneficiaries of deceased and affected police personnel under the Nigeria Police Force Insurance Scheme.
The Commissioner of Police in Abia State, CP Wilfred Olutokunbo Afolabi, presented the cheques on behalf of the Inspector-General of Police as part of efforts to support officers and families who have suffered loss in the course of police service.
According to the Commissioner, the 21 cheques, covering Group Life Assurance and Group Personal Accident insurance, have a cumulative value of ₦17,662,806.70.
Speaking during the presentation, Afolabi said the intervention demonstrates the commitment of the Inspector-General of Police to the welfare of serving personnel and the families of officers who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.
“This gesture underscores the commitment of the Inspector-General of Police to the welfare of officers and their families, ensuring that those who have paid the ultimate price or suffered loss in the line of duty are duly supported,” he said.
The Commissioner also conveyed the condolences and sympathy of the Nigeria Police Force to the families of fallen officers, acknowledging the pain associated with losing loved ones in the course of service.
Afolabi advised the beneficiaries to make prudent use of the funds, particularly by investing in sustainable businesses and the education and welfare of their children.
He cautioned them against spending the money on luxury items, stressing that the financial support should instead be used to improve their families’ long-term economic well-being.
“If you are already in business, use the money to expand your business. Focus more on the well-being of your children. Give them good education. It is one of the best investments you can ever embark upon,” the Commissioner advised.
He further urged the beneficiaries not to waste the funds, noting that careful investment could help provide lasting support for their households.
“Please, as this money is given to you, make good use of it. Don’t waste it,” he added.
Earlier, the Police Public Relations Officer of the Abia State Command, DSP Maureen Chinaka, said the presentation was in line with the welfare initiative of the Inspector-General of Police.
She noted that CP Afolabi had, upon assuming duty in Abia State, identified the welfare of officers as one of the priorities of his administration, in line with the broader objectives of the Nigeria Police Force.
Also present at the ceremony were members of the Command’s management team, including the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations, DCP Ifeanyi Ohuruzo; the Deputy Commissioner of Police in charge of Administration, DCP Samuel Onoja; and the officer overseeing insurance matters in the Command, SP Victor Ndukwe.
The Commissioner concluded by praying for continued comfort and healing for families who lost their loved ones in the course of police service.
