By Nkechi Eze
The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has hailed the Nigerian Police Force for its unwavering commitment to justice, equity, and the protection of human dignity as the country marks seven decades of women in policing. Speaking at a landmark anniversary event themed “70 Years of Courage and Service: Honoring Women in Policing, Inspiring the Future,” Senator Tinubu described the milestone as a celebration of women who have stood on the frontlines of law enforcement, peacekeeping, and community safety.
Commending the Force under the leadership of Inspector General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, the First Lady highlighted the Force’s alignment with global best practices and its strategic prioritization of gender mainstreaming. “As we commemorate this 70-year milestone, we also cast our gaze forward. The task before us is to build an even stronger foundation for the next generation of women officers,” she said, urging female officers to continue upholding the law while inspiring their communities.
“You have not only upheld the law; you have uplifted your homes and the nation. You have been exemplary peacekeepers and ambassadors of Nigerian excellence abroad,” Senator Tinubu added, emphasizing the dual role of women officers as both protectors and societal role models. She also addressed young women considering careers in policing, encouraging them to answer the call to serve. “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,” she noted.
In his remarks, IGP Kayode Egbetokun reflected on the historic journey of women in the Force since 1955, noting that the earliest female officers were initially limited to welfare, clerical, and children-related duties. “Yet their discipline, professionalism, and courage set new standards that have transformed our policing institution,” he said. He highlighted that women now serve across operational, tactical, investigative, administrative, and strategic roles, including specialized units, peacekeeping missions, and leadership positions both nationally and internationally.
Assistant Inspector General of Police, Aishatu Abubakar Baju, lauded the exceptional service of Nigerian policewomen across law enforcement, peacekeeping, intelligence, forensics, tactical operations, sports, community development, social welfare, and juvenile protection. She described them as courageous, emotionally intelligent, and unwavering in their commitment to duty.
Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, reinforced the importance of resilience, service, and integrity in policing, reminding young recruits that strong work ethics, discipline, and professionalism are essential for strengthening national security and leaving lasting legacies.
In a keynote address, the First Female Commissioner of Police of the Bahamas, Shante Knowles, congratulated Nigeria on reaching the 70-year milestone. She reflected on her own journey, from joining the Royal Bahamas Police Force at age 15 to becoming the first female Commissioner, and urged Nigerian women officers to continue breaking barriers, seizing opportunities, and shaping the future of policing.
The anniversary celebration served as both a tribute to the trailblazing women of the past and a clarion call for the next generation to build upon the legacy of courage, professionalism, and service that has defined 70 years of women in the Nigerian Police Force.
