By Nkechi Eze
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has paid tribute to the pioneer women officers of the Nigeria Police Force, recognising their courage, resilience and contributions to the development of women’s participation in policing.
Disu made the remarks on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, while serving as Chief Launcher at the public presentation of a book documenting the history and experiences of the pioneer generation of policewomen.
According to an official statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, the book, titled The Origin of Police Women in Nigeria: The Story of the Pioneer Women Officers and My Journey in the Nigeria Police Force (1955–1996), was authored by retired Deputy Commissioner of Police Dame Stella O. Okuyiga.
The IGP described the publication as an important contribution to preserving the institutional history of the Force and documenting the achievements of women who paved the way for subsequent generations of female officers.
He noted that Okuyiga was among the first 20 women to join the Nigeria Police Force in 1955, adding that the experiences and sacrifices of the pioneer officers had helped expand opportunities for women within the institution.
Disu stressed the importance of a police force that reflects and understands the diverse communities it serves, noting that women had continued to distinguish themselves in criminal investigation, intelligence, tactical operations, specialist policing and strategic leadership.
He reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to merit-based advancement and equal professional opportunities, emphasising that the legacy of pioneer officers should be preserved to inspire serving personnel and future generations.
Recalling his earlier engagement with Okuyiga while serving as Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, the IGP said the retired officer had expressed her desire to update and formally present the publication.
He commended her for documenting the experiences and contributions of the pioneering generation of policewomen and urged serving and retired officers, institutions and members of the public to support the book’s circulation.
Disu specifically encouraged police formations, training institutions and libraries to make the publication available to ensure that the history of women in the Force remained accessible for learning, research and professional development.
In her response, Okuyiga expressed appreciation to the IGP and the Nigeria Police Force for supporting the publication.
She said the book’s availability in police libraries and training institutions would preserve the experiences and sacrifices of the pioneer women officers for generations of police personnel.
The retired officer expressed fulfilment that her story and legacy would endure beyond her lifetime, contributing to the institutional history of the Force.
The event was attended by the Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, GSSRS, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Dagogo Wokoma; the Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, represented by the Director of the Police Services Department, Ezekiel Audu; and AIG Aishatu Abubakar Baju, OON, mni.
Other dignitaries included the Rivers State Commissioner of Police, CP Olugbenga Adewole Adepoju, psc, mnips; retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police Ivy Uche Okoronkwo, NPM, mni; retired senior police officers, traditional rulers, representatives of sister security agencies, members of the Police Officers’ Wives Association and other distinguished guests.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to preserving its institutional heritage, recognising the contributions of officers who laid the foundations for the present-day Force and ensuring that leadership and career advancement opportunities remained accessible to all personnel based on professionalism, competence and merit.
