First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has praised the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) for strengthening justice, equity, and the protection of human dignity, particularly through its growing commitment to gender inclusion in policing.
She gave the commendation at the 70th anniversary celebration of women in the Nigeria Police Force, held under the theme “70 Years of Courage and Service: Honoring Women in Policing, Inspiring the Future.”
The event drew national and international dignitaries who gathered to honour decades of contributions by Nigerian women in law enforcement.
Describing the occasion as a celebration of shared global values, Senator Tinubu said the milestone recognises women who have consistently stood on the frontlines of peace, security, and community protection.
She applauded the leadership of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, for aligning the Force with global best practices and mainstreaming gender as a strategic priority.
She said, “As we commemorate this 70-year milestone, we also cast our gaze forward. To the women of the Nigeria Police Force, 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.”
Addressing young women and girls, the First Lady emphasised that the future of inclusivity in policing is wide open.
“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 added.
Egbetokun, in his remarks, highlighted the steady progress made by women across all levels of policing in Nigeria.
He noted that women now serve in operational, investigative, administrative, tactical, and strategic positions, including specialized units and international peacekeeping missions.
He said, “Women have earned their place across every layer of policing. Their contributions reflect the truth that excellence wears many faces.”
Reflecting on the Force’s history, the IGP recalled that when policewomen were enlisted in 1955, their duties were restricted to clerical work, welfare, and matters relating to children. Their discipline and professionalism over the decades, he said, have redefined policing standards and opened doors to broader responsibilities and leadership roles.
Assistant Inspector General of Police, Aishatu Abubakar Baju, also lauded the exceptional service of Nigerian policewomen. She highlighted their achievements in peacekeeping, intelligence, forensics, tactical operations, sports, social welfare, community service, and juvenile protection.
According to her, these women have consistently demonstrated courage, emotional intelligence, and unwavering commitment, standing at the forefront of national security and crisis response.
The 70th anniversary event celebrated both the historical journey and the growing influence of women in policing, signaling a stronger push for gender-balanced security institutions in Nigeria.
