The inspector general of police, Kayode Egbetokun, has pledged to ensure greater representation of women police officers in tactical, operational, and command roles.

Mr Egbetokun made the pledge on Thursday in Abuja at an event marking 70 years of women’s policing in Nigeria.

He said the Nigeria Police Force was proud of its women and would continue to discourage discrimination, harassment, or career obstruction against them.

“We follow your strength, we celebrate your intellect, we rely on your courage, we are inspired by your service, and today, the entire nation stands with you.

“To the younger generation of female police officers, you are not merely inheriting history; you are shaping the next chapter. You are the architects of the policing culture we envisioned, a culture rooted in professionalism, compassion, competence, and courage.

“To every woman in the Nigerian Police Force, you are not an appendix in our story, you are not a footnote in our history, you are central to our identity,” he said.

He said the celebration of women in policing was a legacy born in 1955, that began quietly and had grown into one of the strongest voices in Nigerian security history.

According to him, we are here to open up a 70-year heritage, defined by resilience, brilliance, discipline, and unwavering service.

“This is not merely an anniversary. It’s a tribute to the women who stepped forward when society led them to step back.

“When the Nigeria Police Force first opened its doors to women, it was incredible. It was a groundbreaking step for its time.

“Although the doors were open, the pathways were narrow. The pioneering intake was small.

“A handful of courageous women permitted to serve but restricted to duties such as juvenile welfare, clerical work, and matters involving women and children,” he said.

Mr Egbetokun said the female officers were allowed to join institutions but were not allowed to engage in the full breadth of policing.

According to him, even within those limitations, they set a new standard and their discipline, compassion, professionalism, and quiet courage became the seeds of institutional transformation.

He said the women have earned their place across every layer of policing, serving in operational, tactical, investigative, administrative, and strategic roles.

The police chief said the female officers’ journey reflected the resilience, adaptability, and unwavering commitment of Nigerian women to national service.

(NAN)