The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has renewed calls for equal career opportunities for men and women in the Nigeria Police Force. He said professional growth and leadership roles should depend on competence, professionalism and merit, rather than gender.
The IGP made the commitment during the launch of a book celebrating women who helped shape policing in Nigeria. The Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Ani Iniedu, disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday, October 14, 2026.
The event took place on Tuesday, October 13, at the Presidential Hotel in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
Disu attended as chief launcher of the book, The Origin of Police Women in Nigeria: The Story of the Pioneer Women Officers and My Journey in the Nigeria Police Force (1955–1996). The book was written by retired Deputy Commissioner of Police Dame Stella O. Okuyiga.
It records the experiences and achievements of early women officers in the Force. Okuyiga was among the first 20 women recruited into the Nigeria Police Force in 1955. Disu praised her generation for their courage, hard work and service, he said their efforts helped create more opportunities for women in law enforcement.
He also noted that women officers now serve in criminal investigations, intelligence, tactical operations and senior leadership roles.
The IGP stressed that the Nigeria Police gender equality commitment must remain part of the Force’s professional development. He called on serving and retired officers, institutions and members of the public to support the book.
He also encouraged its placement in police formations, training centres and libraries nationwide. In her remarks, Okuyiga thanked the IGP and the Police Force for supporting the publication.
She said making the book available to officers would preserve the experiences, sacrifices and achievements of pioneer women for future generations. The event was attended by Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s representative, Dr Dagogo Wokoma, and representatives of the Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam.
Senior serving and retired officers, traditional rulers, security agency representatives and members of the Police Officers’ Wives Association also attended.
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IGP Disu Pushes for Unity Between Police and Rivers Communities ahead of 2027 Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu has called for stronger cooperation between police officers and Rivers State residents.
He said closer ties with community leaders and the public would help protect the security gains recorded across the state. The police chief made the call during a meeting with officers led by Rivers State Commissioner of Police, Olugbenga Adepoju.
They reviewed security operations and discussed preparations for the 2027 general elections.
Disu praised the commissioner for his efforts to improve security in Rivers State. He said his discussions with residents and community leaders showed progress in the state’s security situation.
“I notice that the Commissioner of Police has put in a lot of work in the security of the state.
“I have been able to see the successes and interact with members of the community, a lot of stakeholders and everybody is in agreement that my officers are doing so much and have been able to improve the security of the State.”
The IGP said the meeting also gave him an opportunity to address officers’ concerns and remind them of their duties. He directed officers to engage community stakeholders and respond quickly when residents request assistance.
“And to discuss the issue of the 2027 elections with them. I directed them to meet with stakeholders and endear themselves to members of the public and respond on time to members of the public whenever they seek assistance.”
Disu stressed that public cooperation remains important for effective policing, especially as Nigeria prepares for another general election.
The police chief thanked Rivers residents for standing up for their rights; he described them as informed citizens who understand the importance of accountability.
“I thank the citizens of Rivers State.They are very enlightened. You cannot push them anyhow.They stand for their right. They fight for their rights.
“I urge the citizens of the state to cooperate with the Police. For adequate security of this level, it shows cooperation between the Police and the community. I have also spoken with my men to ensure the cooperation is increased”.
He urged residents to continue supporting security agencies while exercising their civic rights. He also directed officers to strengthen cooperation with communities ahead of the 2027 elections.
