The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has announced a landmark policy granting lifetime salary benefits to senior officers retiring from the rank of Deputy Controller, Comptroller, or Commandant-General and above.
The policy, aimed at enhancing welfare and motivation within the paramilitary ranks, was approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as part of his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo made the announcement on Thursday during the 2025 Ministerial Retreat, where he reviewed the ministry’s achievements and reiterated its commitment to institutional reform and improved capacity across all agencies.
“In recognition of the welfare of senior officers, the minister announced that any officer retiring from the rank of Deputy Controller, Comptroller, or Commandant-General will now receive lifetime salary benefits, a policy graciously approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” a statement signed by DCF PO Abraham, Head of Corporate Services at the Federal Fire Service, read.
The minister also expressed deep appreciation to President Tinubu for his “unwavering support,” stating that all Interior Ministry agencies are benefiting from the administration’s reformist agenda.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo highlighted several key achievements, including the clearance of a long-standing backlog of promotions. Over 50,000 officers, he noted, have been promoted in the last two years.
He revealed that future promotions will be performance-based, as the ministry transitions to a new progression system founded on capacity and merit.
The minister also announced the development of updated training manuals and the ongoing construction of a world-class Fire Academy, designed to meet global standards and rival top institutions such as the Arizona Fire Academy.
Recognizing the importance of mental health in the workplace, Dr. Tunji-Ojo assured officers of the ministry’s continued support in ensuring psychological well-being.
In a push toward modernization, the minister urged the Federal Fire Service to pursue partnerships with the private sector. Such collaborations, he said, are vital for improved service delivery, enhanced infrastructure, and the adoption of modern firefighting technology in Nigeria.
