The Nigerian Police Force has introduced a new financial empowerment initiative aimed at improving the economic well-being of its personnel through a tricycle loan scheme. This program, spearheaded by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, seeks to provide officers with an opportunity to own tricycles, commonly known as "Keke," which can serve as an additional source of income.
According to a police wireless message dated March 12, 2025, from the Assistant Inspector General overseeing the Police Cooperative Society in Lagos, the Nigeria Police Cooperative Multi-Purpose Society Ltd. has partnered with Bulk Stalker Engineering Limited to facilitate the acquisition of tricycles for interested officers.
The scheme provides a variety of tricycle models, including trucks, taxis, and ambulances, at a cost of N5.5 million per unit. To ease financial strain, officers will repay the loan at a fixed rate of N90,000 per month over 60 months. Repayments will be deducted directly from salaries through the Integrated Payroll and Personnel Information System (IPPIS) to ensure a seamless payment process.
Application forms for the loan will be made available at all police cooperative shops nationwide, allowing interested officers to apply easily. Once approved, they will be able to take possession of their tricycles and either use them personally or lease them out for commercial purposes.
Tricycles have become a major means of public transportation across Nigeria due to their affordability, efficiency in navigating congested areas, and high demand among commuters. By implementing this initiative, the Nigerian Police aims to enhance the financial security of its officers, helping them create alternative income streams outside of their primary salaries.
This program has been met with mixed reactions, as some officers see it as a positive step towards financial independence, while others question the affordability of the monthly repayment plan. Nonetheless, the initiative underscores the police force’s commitment to supporting the welfare of its personnel beyond their routine law enforcement duties.