Nigeria marked a historic milestone this week, celebrating seven decades of women's service within the Nigerian Police Force. The landmark anniversary was commemorated at a special event where the nation's First Lady led tributes to the courage and dedication of policewomen.
First Lady Lauds Legacy of Service and Courage
Senator Oluremi Tinubu delivered a powerful address at the anniversary, themed “70 Years of Courage and Service: Honoring Women in Policing, Inspiring the Future.” She praised the Force for its commitment to justice, equity, and protecting human dignity. The First Lady specifically recognized women who have served on the frontlines of law enforcement, peacekeeping, and community safety.
"As we commemorate this 70-year milestone, we also cast our gaze forward," Senator Tinubu stated. She emphasized the need to build a stronger foundation for the next generation of women officers. Directly addressing young women, she added, "If you feel the call to serve our great nation, know that there is a place for you. This uniform symbolizes service, dignity, honour, and responsibility."
From Welfare Duties to Leadership: A Transformative Journey
Inspector General of Police Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun outlined the remarkable evolution of women's roles in the Force. He noted that the first women recruits in 1955 were initially restricted to welfare, clerical, and children-related duties. Their professionalism, however, set new standards that paved the way for transformation.
Today, the IGP highlighted, female officers excel in every area:operational, tactical, investigative, administrative, and strategic roles. They serve in specialized units, international peacekeeping missions, and hold leadership positions both nationally and abroad. "Women have earned their place across every layer of policing," Egbetokun affirmed.
Inspiration from Home and Abroad
Assistant Inspector General of Police Aishatu Abubakar Baju celebrated the exceptional contributions of policewomen across diverse fields including law enforcement, intelligence, forensics, and community development. She described them as courageous and emotionally intelligent.
The Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, stressed the values of resilience and integrity, urging officers to continue striving for excellence to strengthen national security.
Adding an international perspective, First Female Commissioner of Police of the Bahamas, Shante Knowles, shared her own journey and congratulated Nigeria on its milestone. She encouraged Nigerian women officers to keep breaking barriers and shaping the future of policing globally.
The event served as both a celebration of a rich 70-year history and a clear call to action, championing gender mainstreaming as a key priority for the future of the Nigerian Police Force.
