Nigeria’s Women Police Still Breaking Barriers At 70 With The Future Looking Brighter
For seven decades, Nigerian women in uniform have quietly rewritten the nation’s policing story, moving from the margins of clerical work to the heart of operational command.
That evolution took centre stage in Abuja as the country celebrated the 70th anniversary of women in policing, a milestone marked by pride, reflection, and a renewed call to action.
Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, led the tributes at the event themed “70 Years of Courage and Service: Honouring Women in Policing, Inspiring the Future.”
She hailed the Nigerian Police Force for its steadfast commitment to justice, equity, and the protection of human dignity, describing female officers as “exemplary peacekeepers and ambassadors of Nigerian excellence.”
“As we commemorate this milestone, we must also look ahead,” she said, urging female officers to continue inspiring their communities.
“If you feel the call to serve this great nation, know that there is a place for you in this uniform, a symbol of service, dignity, honour, and responsibility.”
Inspector General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, reflected on the long journey from 1955, when the first women officers were restricted to welfare and clerical duties.
Today, he noted, women serve in operational, tactical, investigative, and strategic roles, both at home and on international peacekeeping missions.
The ceremony also featured a keynote by Shante Knowles, the first female Commissioner of Police of the Bahamas, who urged Nigerian officers to keep breaking barriers and seizing opportunities.
Her story, from joining the force at 15 to leading it, drew applause and inspiration in equal measure.
Assistant Inspector General of Police, Aishatu Abubakar Baju, paid tribute to the outstanding contributions of Nigerian policewomen in forensics, intelligence, tactical operations, sports, and community development, describing them as courageous and emotionally intelligent leaders.
Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, reinforced the need for discipline, resilience, and professionalism among recruits, reminding them that the future of national security rests on the strength of their service.
As the curtains fell on the 70th anniversary celebration, one message rang clear: the pioneering women who began this journey have opened doors, and the next generation is poised to walk through them with even greater courage and purpose.
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