The Inspector-General of Police, Dr Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, on Friday joined female officers of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) to officially declare open the “Nigeria Police Women @ 70” celebrations—an event commemorating seven decades of exceptional courage, service, resilience, and leadership by women in the Force.
In his address, the IGP paid glowing tribute to generations of female police officers who, since the enlistment of the first set of women in 1955, have remained pillars of professionalism and dedication to national security. He noted that their courage, integrity, and operational excellence have not only strengthened policing in Nigeria but have also deepened public trust and advanced the NPF’s commitment to inclusive and people-centered law enforcement.
Highlighting key gender-responsive reforms under his leadership, IGP Egbetokun outlined expanded career pathways, enhanced welfare packages, targeted leadership development opportunities, and the strengthening of the NPF Gender Unit. He emphasized that women in the Force are now playing pivotal roles across critical policing domains—including forensic science, cybercrime and digital investigations, counter-terrorism, peacekeeping operations, and community safety—signifying a modern, inclusive, and globally aligned policing institution.
The ceremony drew an impressive array of dignitaries, led by the Special Guest of Honour, the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON.
Others in attendance included the Honourable 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; the National Commissioner of Police, Royal Bahamas Police Force, Shanta E. Knowles; representatives of various MDAs; the UNDP Resident Representative, Elsie Attafuah; the President of the Police Officers’ Wives Association, Dr. (Mrs.) Elizabeth Egbetokun; wives of Service Chiefs; wives of Members of the National Assembly; and leaders of notable women’s organisations.
Also present were retired senior female police officers, including DIG Ivy Okoronkwo, mni (rtd.), who joined in celebrating the historic contributions of women to Nigeria’s policing landscape.
