Amanze ChinonyeThe Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, has pledged the support of the Nigeria Police Force for a new federal housing initiative aimed at providing thousands of affordable housing units for police personnel across the country.
Egbetokun made the commitment on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by the Minister of Housing and Urban Development, Ahmed Musa Dangiwa, to the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelThe minister, who was accompanied by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr Shuaib Belgore, and other senior officials, said President Tinubu had approved the housing scheme to address one of the most pressing welfare challenges facing the police.
He also announced the establishment of a National Task Force on the Recovery of Encroached Federal Government Lands and Properties, in partnership with the police, to protect public assets and ensure that critical national projects are not derailed.
Dangiwa commended the police for what he described as their professionalism, resilience, and outstanding service to the nation. He stressed that adequate housing for officers would further strengthen their ability to safeguard lives and property.
READ ALSO:
- Niger Flood: Death Toll Rises To 151, Over 3,000 Displaced – NEMA
- NAFDAC Declares Genetically Modified Foods Safe, Mandates Clear Labelling For All GM Products
- Arsenal Bid £5M For Chelsea’s Kepa Arrizabalaga
In his response, the IGP said the initiative was a timely intervention and a direct boost to police morale and operational effectiveness. He assured that the police would work closely with the housing ministry and other stakeholders to ensure the recovery of encroached federal lands and the successful rollout of the housing programme.
The Nigeria Police Force has long struggled with a housing crisis, with many officers living in dilapidated barracks or renting unsafe apartments due to the lack of official accommodation.
Poor welfare conditions have often been cited as a factor affecting morale and professionalism in the force. Previous housing interventions, including cooperative housing estates and the National Housing Fund scheme, have had limited impact, with many projects stalling or falling short of the scale of need.
President Tinubu has identified housing and urban renewal as a key plank of his “Renewed Hope Agenda,” with security personnel marked as priority beneficiaries.
Analysts say the latest initiative could help address decades-old welfare deficits in the police. The challenge of land encroachment has also emerged as a major obstacle to housing delivery, particularly in Abuja and other urban centres. The newly established task force is expected to tackle this problem, ensuring that federal assets are protected and housing projects are not obstructed.
The move reflects the administration’s broader strategy to strengthen national security by improving the welfare of security personnel while safeguarding vital government properties.
Amanze Chinonye is a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria. With a unique voice that blends tradition with modernity, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday Nigerian life, from the bustling markets of Lagos to the quiet villages of the countryside. With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
