The Nigeria Police Force has in a post reveal plans to pull down dilapidated barracks while it construct befitting ones for its officers.
the Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarter Abuja, Olumuyiwa Adejobi stated that so many of the old structure posed as danger to the officers and their families, so the need to rebuild new ones.
As against the false news circulating on the internet that the officers were evicted without prior notices, Adejobi clarified that some officers had already being given Notice to quit with a sum of 2, 000, 000 naira to acquire new accommodations while the force will still pay their monthly housing allowance while the renovation is ongoing.
“Occupants were given adequate notice, provided relocation assistance, and compensated with N2,000,000 each to secure alternative accommodation. Furthermore, they will receive monthly rent allowances in line with provisions for officers not residing in the barracks. Upon completion of the new facility, these officers will be allotted housing units, ensuring a seamless transition back to improved living conditions.”
He revealed that the project is not a new initiative as it has been under way during the tenure of the past Inspector General of Police Usman Baba Alkali in collaboration with Lagos state government, which the Current IGP Kayode Egbetokun will continue to work in progress.
“The barracks, previously in disrepair, will undergo a complete redesign and reconstruction to provide modern, habitable accommodations that reflect the dignity our officers deserve. This project was initiated under the leadership of former Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Usman Baba Alkali, in collaboration with the Lagos State Government and private sector partners through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP).
“The current IGP, Dr. Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, NPM, reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to improving officers’ housing by convening the first Nigeria Police Force Housing Summit on April 23-24, 2024. This summit brought together stakeholders to chart a sustainable path toward improved police welfare.
“A nationwide assessment revealed that less than 25% of police personnel have access to adequate barracks accommodations, with 90% of existing barracks falling into severe disrepair. Many of these structures are dangerously unsafe, posing a clear risk to occupants.
“The urgent reconstruction of these facilities, including Falomo Barracks, is not only necessary but aligned with international best practices to ensure the safety and well-being of our officers. The IGP, through the NPF Property Development and Construction Company, has leveraged PPP arrangements to rebuild existing barracks and provide affordable housing for officers.
“PPP models, which integrate private sector investment into public infrastructure, have been successfully adopted across various sectors in Nigeria, such as rail projects and university hostels, and globally in police housing initiatives.

He added that after renovation, there will be weekly inspection across board as maintenance is paramount.
“Old police barracks will go down, and the new ones will be built to comfort officers and men of the force. With this new innovation, regular barracks inspection will be reactivated across the board. Maintenance is key, and that must be addressed in the police force.
“The NPF remains committed to the well-being of its personnel, understanding that dignified living conditions are essential to effective service delivery.
“Here are the prototypes. It’s achievable.” Adejobi affirmed.

Pix credit: @Princemoye1

By: Adeoye Olorunseun Elizabeth
adeoye.o@thesubstancenews.com
info@thesubstancenews.com