The Federal Government has approved a new welfare package that allows senior officers retiring from the rank of Deputy Controller, Comptroller, or Commandant-General to receive lifetime salary benefits.
The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced the decision during the 2025 Ministerial Retreat in Abuja. The statement was later confirmed by the Federal Fire Service through its spokesperson, DCF P.O. Abraham.
According to the Minister, the policy takes effect immediately and was approved by President Bola Tinubu as part of efforts to improve the welfare of officers and strengthen the performance of institutions under the Ministry of Interior.
Promotions and Welfare
Dr. Tunji-Ojo also revealed that the Ministry has cleared a backlog of promotions, with over 50,000 officers promoted in the last two years. He added that going forward, promotions will be based on capacity and performance, not just seniority.
Other welfare initiatives highlighted include:
- Establishment of a new Fire Academy to meet international standards.
- Development of updated training manuals for officers.
- Greater attention to mental health and workplace wellness.
- Collaboration with the private sector to modernize firefighting infrastructure across the country.
Recent Salary and Pension Reviews
This development comes after a series of salary and pension adjustments for workers and retirees:
- In 2024, the Federal Government approved a 25% to 35% salary increase across major consolidated salary structures such as CONPSS, CONPOSS, and CONPASS.
- In August 2025, pensioners under the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) received an additional ₦32,000 monthly pension, following the release of a ₦758 billion bond to clear outstanding liabilities.
The Interior Minister said these reforms show the government’s focus on rewarding service and improving officer welfare, while also building stronger security and paramilitary institutions across Nigeria.