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By Paul Williams
A coalition of civil society groups have called on the Federal Government, the Nigeria Police Force, the National Assembly and other security institutions to prioritise the welfare of the country’s first responders through policy reforms and better budgetary provisions.
In a joint statement dated June 27, 2026, Relief International Africa, Civil‑Military Police Paramilitary Relations (CIMPARR‑NIGERIA) and COMPPART Foundation for Justice and Peacebuilding said frontline personnel — including police, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and the Armed Forces — continue to operate under difficult conditions that undermine effectiveness and morale.
“Officers who are physically, mentally and financially supported are better equipped to deliver professional, timely and accountable service to the public,” the groups said.
They listed persistent welfare challenges reported by officers: low and irregular pay, lack of decent housing, poor access to quality healthcare, delays in benefits, inadequate insurance for families, and the need for personnel to buy their own uniforms and operational kits.
The statement, signed by Amb. Green Isaac, Executive Director of Relief International Africa and coordinator of CIMPARR‑NIGERIA, and Saviour Akpan of COMPPART Foundation, urged the establishment of a robust Internal Complaints and Feedback Response Mechanism in all security agencies to ensure welfare concerns are received, investigated and resolved.
They said the proposed system should be confidential, technology‑driven and shield reporters from victimisation.
Isaac and Akpan also outlined specific budgetary and policy demands for annual security appropriations, including: Competitive salaries and timely payment of allowances, Affordable, decent housing schemes for officers and Comprehensive health insurance for officers and their immediate families.
Other demands include, Adequate life and disability insurance for personnel injured or killed in the line of duty, Government‑funded uniforms, protective equipment and operational kits and Improved barracks and workplace infrastructure.
They also called for Mental‑health, trauma counselling and psychosocial support and Continuous professional development and modern training programmes for the responders.
The organizations urged the National Assembly to tighten oversight of welfare appropriations to ensure allocated funds are transparently managed and used for intended purposes.
“Improving welfare is not merely an employment issue but a strategic investment in Nigeria’s national security architecture,” the release said, adding that motivated, well‑equipped officers are more likely to protect human rights and strengthen public confidence.
The statement concluded with an offer by the groups to collaborate with government institutions, security agencies and development partners to implement practical reforms.
The appeal comes as security agencies across the country face growing public scrutiny over conduct and capacity, making welfare and institutional accountability an increasingly prominent demand from civil society.
