Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has proposed a series of reforms aimed at improving the welfare of serving and retired police officers, including pension reviews, healthcare coverage and higher salaries if he wins the 2027 presidential election.

Atiku also called on President Bola Tinubu to clarify the status of the Police Exit Bill, which he said was forwarded to the presidency in March, amid concerns over the financial challenges facing police personnel after years of service.

According to Northern Nigeria Hub, the former vice president made the demands in a statement issued by Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) Presidential Campaign Council. Atiku cited cases of retired officers struggling to meet basic needs, including a former Assistant Superintendent of Police who reportedly receives a monthly pension of ₦29,000.

He also recounted the case of a retired Assistant Commissioner of Police who allegedly resorted to begging after failing to secure employment. Atiku further claimed that some serving officers had been withdrawing part of their pension savings to support their families amid rising living costs.

Under his proposed Police Dignity Guarantee Plan, Atiku said a government led by him would verify outstanding pension arrears and gratuity claims, publish payment schedules and establish a minimum pension benchmark subject to periodic reviews. The plan would also provide health insurance for serving and retired officers, support for families of personnel killed in service and home-based verification for retirees unable to travel because of illness.

The proposal includes a review of police salaries and measures to improve transparency in retirement benefits. These would include clear records of pension contributions and entitlements, designated contacts for resolving disputes and the publication of payment information.

On the Police Exit Bill, Atiku urged the National Assembly to disclose its current status and clarify the next constitutional steps available to lawmakers. He cited Section 58 of the Constitution in questioning the delay, although the applicable timeline and procedural position would need to be assessed against the bill’s specific legislative status.

Atiku said the proposed reforms would be pursued if he assumes office in May 2027, arguing that serving officers and retirees should receive adequate financial and medical support in recognition of their service to the country.