<![CDATA[The transition from active police service to retirement presents significant psychological, social, and moral challenges for many officers, particularly in contexts where structured post-retirement support systems are absent. This study examines the potential contributions of the Police Catholic Chaplaincy to the wellbeing of police retirees in Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria. Employing a systematic library research method, the paper synthesizes existing literature on police occupational stress, retirement adjustment, and the functions of law enforcement chaplaincy. The analysis is framed by Lazarus and Folkman’s transactional theory of stress and coping and Pargament’s theory of religious coping, providing a lens through which to understand how chaplaincy services can serve as coping resources. The study finds that police retirees in Calabar, like their counterparts across Nigeria, face elevated risks of mental health disorders, financial distress, and social isolation, stemming from the cumulative stressors of police work and the absence of comprehensive retirement preparation. The Police Catholic Chaplaincy, with its multifaceted roles in spiritual support, counselling, moral guidance, community building, and crisis response, offers a structured pastoral framework that addresses these needs. However, the paper also identifies barriers to the effective utilization of chaplaincy services by retirees, including the misconception that such services are exclusively for serving officers, limited chaplaincy resources, and denominational boundaries. The study recommends the development of structured post-retirement pastoral programmes within the Nigeria Police Force, proactive pre-retirement chaplaincy engagement, and interfaith collaboration to ensure inclusive support for all retirees, regardless of religious affiliation.]]>
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