It was a day of mixed emotions in Gusau on Thursday as families who lost loved ones in police uniform finally got some form of financial support from the Nigeria Police Force.
The Zamfara State Police Command presented cheques worth *₦12,150,868.33* to 27 families and next of kin of police officers who died in active service, as well as to officers who sustained injuries while on duty. The money was paid under the Group Life Assurance scheme.
Leading the presentation, the Commissioner of Police in Zamfara, *CP Ahmad Muhammad Bello*, said the gesture was the force’s way of honoring officers who paid the ultimate price protecting communities across the state.
Speaking at the event, CP Bello became emotional as he addressed the widows, children and relatives gathered at the command headquarters.
He commiserated with the families of the deceased officers and acknowledged the pain of losing a breadwinner in such difficult circumstances. He also praised the courage of serving officers who continue to confront banditry, kidnapping and other security threats daily in Zamfara.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to the welfare of our personnel, injured officers and the families of those who lost their lives in active service,” Bello stated.
“The sacrifice of these gallant men and women will never be forgotten. This payment, though small compared to the value of the lives lost, is a demonstration that the system remembers and cares.”
The CP explained that the ₦12.15 million was part of a nationwide welfare package being rolled out by the Inspector-General of Police to cushion the hardship faced by families of fallen officers.
Beyond the families of the deceased, Bello also used the occasion to assure injured officers that the command had not abandoned them.
He said the police management is working with insurance providers and the federal government to ensure that medical bills and rehabilitation costs for wounded personnel are promptly handled.
The commissioner then turned to the beneficiaries with a direct appeal: use the money wisely. “I urge you to invest these funds in ways that will secure the future of your families and dependants. Think about education for the children, small businesses, and other ventures that can give you long-term stability,” he advised.
Speaking on behalf of the recipients, *Shinku Samson Aondoyila* thanked the IGP and the Zamfara Commissioner for making the payment possible.
According to him, many of the families had been struggling since their loved ones died, and the assistance came at a critical time.
“This support is timely and impactful. It will go a long way in helping us take care of basic needs and plan for the future,” Aondoyila said. “We appreciate that the police authority has not abandoned us.”
He prayed for the repose of the souls of the departed officers and for strength for those still in the line of duty.
The presentation in Zamfara is part of a broader welfare drive by the Nigeria Police Force under the current IGP. In the last year, the force has intensified efforts to clear outstanding insurance claims, pension arrears, and death benefits owed to officers and their families.
Security analysts note that morale in the police, especially in frontline states like Zamfara, depends heavily on whether personnel feel their families will be taken care of if anything happens to them.
With bandit attacks still frequent in parts of the state, CP Bello said the command will continue to push for better equipment, insurance coverage and welfare packages for its men.
For the 27 families who received cheques on Thursday, the ₦12.15 million may not replace the fathers, husbands and sons they lost. But for many of them, it offers a starting point to rebuild and a reminder that their loved ones’ service is remembered.
