President Tinubu Approves Lifetime Salaries for Top-Ranking Retirees in Interior Ministry
In a significant policy shift, President Bola Tinubu has approved lifetime salary entitlements for high-ranking officers retiring from Nigeria’s interior services. The announcement was made by the Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, during the 2025 Ministerial Retreat held on Thursday, August 28.
The new policy applies to officers retiring at or above the ranks of Deputy Controller, Comptroller, or Commandant-General. According to Tunji-Ojo, the initiative is part of a broader agenda to enhance welfare and morale across all agencies under the Interior Ministry. The announcement was formally communicated through a statement issued by DCF P.O. Abraham, Head of Corporate Services and National Public Relations Officer for the Federal Fire Service.
Tunji-Ojo expressed deep gratitude to President Tinubu for greenlighting the welfare initiative, noting that it aligns with the administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda. “All agencies under the Ministry of Interior are witnessing real transformation thanks to the President’s consistent backing,” the statement read.
Highlighting key achievements, the minister revealed that over 50,000 personnel have been promoted within the past two years, addressing a backlog that had existed for years. He added that going forward, promotions will be determined by a new merit-based system that evaluates officers based on performance and skill.
Reinforcing the ministry’s commitment to institutional development, Dr. Tunji-Ojo announced the creation of modern training manuals and confirmed the ongoing construction of a state-of-the-art Fire Academy. The institution is being designed to rival global counterparts, including the renowned Arizona Fire Academy.
Additionally, the minister underscored the ministry’s growing focus on mental health in the workplace. He pledged continued support for officers’ psychological well-being and urged the Federal Fire Service to seek collaborative opportunities with the private sector. These partnerships, he said, will be critical in improving infrastructure, advancing operational capabilities, and modernising fire and rescue services nationwide.
