The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, on Thursday led female personnel of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to formally open activities marking “Nigeria Police Women @ 70,” a commemorative event celebrating seven decades of courage, resilience, and groundbreaking service by women in the Force.
Speaking at the ceremony, the IGP paid glowing tributes to generations of female police officers whose contributions since the enlistment of the first set of women in 1955 have strengthened policing and advanced national security. He described Nigerian policewomen as embodiments of professionalism, integrity, and operational excellence whose efforts have helped deepen public trust and reinforce the NPF’s commitment to inclusive, community-focused law enforcement.
Egbetokun highlighted several gender-responsive reforms introduced under his administration, including expanded career progression opportunities, improved welfare, targeted leadership development programmes, and the strengthening of the Force Gender Unit. He noted that female officers now play critical roles in specialised areas such as forensic science, cybercrime and digital investigations, counter-terrorism, peacekeeping missions, and community safety—reflecting what he called “a modern and globally aligned policing institution.”
The event drew an impressive array of dignitaries, led by the Special Guest of Honour, First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON. Others present included the Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim; former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dame Pauline Tallen, CON; the Chief of Army Staff, represented by Major General I.M. Abdullahi; National Commissioner of Police, Royal Bahamas Police Force, Shanta E. Knowles; representatives of key Ministries, Departments, and Agencies; the UNDP Resident Representative, Elsie Attafuah; and leading women’s organisations.
Also in attendance were the President of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), Dr. Elizabeth Egbetokun; wives of Service Chiefs; wives of federal lawmakers; and a distinguished line-up of retired senior female officers, including former Deputy Inspector-General of Police, Ivy Okoronkwo, mni (rtd.).
The week-long celebration continues with a series of activities designed to highlight the achievements, challenges, and evolving role of women in Nigerian policing.
— CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, anipr, mipra
Force Public Relations Officer
Force Headquarters, Abuja
December 4, 2025
