Zainab Ali
The Jigawa State Police Command on Saturday marked the 70th anniversary of the formal entry of women into the Nigeria Police Force with a free medical outreach and a walk against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Dutse, the state capital.
The event, held at the Ultra-Modern Market, was led by the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Medical Services, ACP Dr Adebayo Oluwatoyin Oladeselu, who represented the Commissioner of Police, CP Dahiru Muhammad.
Speaking at the event, ACP Oladeselu highlighted the contributions of female officers to national security, describing their impact in policing, community engagement and national development as “invaluable.”
She said the anniversary, which marks seven decades of women’s formal integration into the Nigeria Police Force since 1955, underscores the strength and resilience women bring to the institution.
According to her, the medical outreach and sensitisation activities were aimed at boosting public trust and strengthening police-community relations. She added that the anti-SGBV walk demonstrated the force’s commitment to protecting vulnerable groups and promoting gender inclusion under the leadership of CP Dahiru Muhammad.
The activities began with free medical check-ups and counselling sessions for residents, which attracted large crowds. Female officers later led a road walk from the State Police Headquarters to the New Market in Dutse to raise awareness against sexual and gender-based violence.
Beneficiaries commended the initiative. A 45-year-old mother of three, Amina Yusuf, said the free counselling and medication she received would ease the burden of healthcare costs on her family. A trader, Malam Garba, 52, described the event as inspiring, noting that the involvement of women officers in the anti-violence campaign was encouraging. A student, Zainab Ahmed, 28, said the session enlightened her on SGBV prevention.
Women were formally integrated into the Nigeria Police Force in 1955, initially handling cases involving women and children. Over the years, their roles have expanded to include frontline policing, investigations, leadership and specialised units.
Despite challenges such as gender bias and cultural barriers, female officers have continued to rise through the ranks, playing key roles in community policing, intelligence operations, child protection and national campaigns against SGBV.
The 70th anniversary marks a significant milestone in the history of women in the force and reflects ongoing efforts to strengthen gender inclusion and community-based policing in Nigeria.