What began as a search for further education became a 35-year career in Nigeria’s Police Force.
Retired traffic warden Anifat Bello Abiodun has been recognised for her dedicated service in Ogun State.
Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu presented her with an Award of Recognition and cash support.
The presentation took place at the Nigeria Police Force Headquarters in Abuja on September 17, 2026.
Bello served as a traffic warden at NNPC Junction, Ibara, in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Her journey into policing was not part of her original plan. She had wanted to study Business Administration after completing her secondary education.
However, her uncle encouraged her to apply to a police training school in Abeokuta. She passed the entrance examination but was initially rejected because of her height.
Two months later, she was admitted through the second list. Bello said she only discovered her actual role after arriving at the training school.
“I didn’t have a choice because admission for the Secretarial Studies programme in Ibadan had closed. I’m an SSCE (Senior School Certificate Examination) holder, and I wanted to further my studies in Business Administration at a school in Ibadan.”
She later completed a six-week training programme before beginning her police career.
“Because I didn’t have any other option, I had to stay. After the training, I was posted to Ilaro Division.”
That unexpected decision eventually became a long career in traffic management and public service.
The IGP praised Bello for her professionalism, discipline, resilience and commitment to duty.
The recognition also celebrates police personnel whose work supports safer roads and better policing.
