First Lady Oluremi Tinubu Commends Nigeria Police Force for Embracing Gender Mainstreaming as a Strategic Institutional Priority

…as Nigeria celebrates 70 years of women in policing

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has commended the Nigeria Police Force for its commitment to justice, equity, and the protection of human dignity.

She made this known at the celebration of the 70th anniversary of women in policing.

The event, themed “70 Years of Courage and Service: Honoring Women in Policing, Inspiring the Future,” brought together national and international dignitaries to honor the contributions of women in law enforcement.

Senator Oluremi Tinubu described the occasion as a celebration of shared global values and a recognition of women who have stood on the frontlines of peace, law enforcement, and community safety.

The First Lady praised the Force, under the leadership of the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, for aligning with global best practices and embracing gender mainstreaming as a strategic priority.

“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.”

“To the women of the Nigeria Police Force, I say this: 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.”

“To the girls and young women who may be watching this ceremony, know that the future of inclusivity is yours. 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.”

Inspector General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, highlighted the progress Nigerian women have made across all layers of policing.

“Women have earned their place across every layer of policing. Their contributions reflect the truth that excellence wears many faces.”

The IGP emphasized that female officers now serve in operational, tactical, investigative, administrative, and strategic roles, including specialized units, peacekeeping missions, and leadership positions at national and international levels.

Reflecting on the historic journey since 1955, the IGP noted that the first women were initially limited to welfare, clerical, and children-related duties. Yet their discipline, professionalism, and courage set new standards that transformed the policing institution.

Assistant Inspector General of Police, Aishatu Abubakar Baju, in her remarks, celebrated the exceptional service of Nigerian policewomen, highlighting their contributions in law enforcement, peacekeeping, intelligence, forensics, tactical operations, sports, community development, social welfare, and juvenile protection.

She described them as women who have stood at the forefront of national security and crisis management, noting their courage, emotional intelligence, and firm commitment to duty.

Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, underscored the importance of resilience, service, and integrity in women policing. She urged serving policewomen to think deeper, push further, and go the extra mile, emphasizing that the impossible is now possible. She reminded young women joining the Police Force to uphold strong work ethics, discipline, and professionalism, which strengthen national security and build lasting legacies.

The first female Commissioner of Police of the Bahamas, Shante Knowles, in her keynote address, congratulated Nigeria on 70 years of service.

She acknowledged the pioneering women who joined the Force in 1955 and the foundation they laid for future generations.

Sharing her own journey—from joining the Royal Bahamas Police Force at age 15 to becoming the first female Commissioner—she highlighted the importance of perseverance, courage, empathy, and leadership.

She encouraged Nigerian women officers to continue breaking barriers, seizing opportunities, and shaping the future of policing.