By Solomon OKPO
The Akwa Ibom State Police Command on Tuesday joined the rest of the country to celebrate the 70th anniversary of women in the Nigeria Police Force, marking the milestone with a road walk and an outreach to retired female officers.
Female personnel of the Command took to major streets of Uyo in a symbolic fitness walk designed to showcase unity, resilience, and the long standing spirit of service associated with policewomen nationwide. The activity also promoted physical fitness, team bonding and public engagement as part of the nationwide commemoration.
As a highlight of the celebrations, serving policewomen visited retired officers who served the Force with distinction. Among those visited were ACP Ini Akpabio (Rtd), ACP Elizabeth Mfon (Rtd), and SP Rachel Esin (Rtd). The retirees expressed gratitude for the honour, describing the gesture as a meaningful show of respect for their years of service. They also urged serving officers to remain disciplined and dedicated to their duties.
The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, lauded the contributions of women to policing over the past seven decades. He highlighted their achievements in intelligence gathering, investigations, community relations, administration and operational duties.
Azare reaffirmed the Command’s commitment to advancing gender inclusion, noting that the Nigeria Police Force has evolved to provide greater opportunities for women, many of whom now serve in strategic leadership roles including Commissioners of Police, Tactical Commanders and Heads of Units.
The Command extended its congratulations to all serving and retired policewomen for their contributions to safety, security and national development as the Force marks this historic anniversary.
