ABUJA, Nigeria (FN) — The Nigeria Police Force has announced plans to commemorate 70 years of women in policing, honoring the legacy of female officers since the first cohort was enlisted in 1955.
The celebration, scheduled for December 3–4, 2025, will bring together serving and retired female officers, senior government officials, and the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun. Activities will include a national lecture, historical exhibition, panel discussions, and community outreach.
In a statement released by Force Public Relations Officer CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, the milestone was described as a tribute to “seven decades of courage, resilience, and service.” The Inspector-General commended female officers for their “dedication and compassion,” noting their contributions to administration, investigations, tactical operations, and leadership.
The Nigerian Senate welcomed the initiative, with Senator Abdulhamid Mallam-Madori, Chair of the Senate Committee on Police Affairs, stating that “this celebration reflects the progress we’ve made in modernizing policing and promoting gender equity.” He emphasized the Senate’s ongoing support for reforms that empower women in law enforcement, referencing past legislative efforts to eliminate gender-based discrimination in police regulations.
President Bola Tinubu, through a statement from the State House, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming the Nigeria Police Force into a modern, professional institution. “We recognize the indispensable role of women in policing and remain committed to capacity-building and inclusive leadership,” the statement read.
Assistant Inspector General Aishatu Abubakar-Baju, Nigeria’s most senior female police officer, also weighed in, saying, “It’s just a matter of time before Nigeria produces its first female Inspector-General. This anniversary is not just a celebration — it’s a call to action for deeper inclusion and recognition.
The celebration will be hosted at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja, which previously served as the venue for the Nigeria Police Awards and Commendations ceremony. The hotel’s management expressed pride in supporting events that highlight national progress and institutional excellence.
The Nigeria Police Force extended appreciation to all female officers, past and present, whose service continues to inspire future generations. The event is expected to spotlight the evolving role of women in security and reaffirm the Force’s commitment to professionalism, empathy, and national service.
