IGP Disu Launches Book on History of Pioneer Policewomen in Nigeria

IGP Disu Launches Book on History of Pioneer Policewomen in Nigeria

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has called for the preservation of the Nigeria Police Force’s institutional history, commending pioneer female officers for their contributions to policing and national service.

Disu made the call on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, during the public presentation and launch of The Origin of Police Women in Nigeria: The Story of the Pioneer Women Officers and My Journey in the Nigeria Police Force (1955–1996), authored by retired Deputy Commissioner of Police Dame Stella O. Okuyiga.

The event, held at the Presidential Hotel in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, featured the IGP as the chief launcher.

Disu described the book as an important contribution to documenting the history of women in the Force and celebrating the courage, resilience and dedication of officers who paved the way for future generations.

He noted that Okuyiga was among the first 20 women recruited into the Nigeria Police Force in 1955, adding that the pioneering officers helped expand opportunities for women in the profession.

The IGP said women had continued to distinguish themselves in criminal investigation, intelligence, tactical operations, specialist policing and strategic leadership. He reaffirmed the Force’s commitment to professional advancement based on merit and equal opportunities for personnel.

He also recalled his earlier engagement with Okuyiga while serving as Commissioner of Police in Rivers State, when she expressed her intention to update and formally present the publication.

Disu commended the retired officer for documenting the experiences and contributions of the pioneer generation of policewomen. He urged serving and retired officers, institutions and members of the public to support the book and promote its availability in police formations, training institutions and libraries.

In her response, Okuyiga thanked the IGP and the Nigeria Police Force for their support in bringing the publication to fruition.

She said making the book available in police libraries and training institutions would ensure that the experiences and sacrifices of pioneer female officers remained accessible to future generations. She expressed satisfaction that the publication would preserve her story and contribute to the institutional history of the Force beyond her lifetime.

Those present included Rivers State Governor Sir Siminalayi Fubara, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Dagogo Wokoma; Minister of Police Affairs Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, represented by the Director of the Police Services Department, Ezekiel Audu; AIG Aishatu Abubakar Baju; Rivers State Commissioner of Police CP Olugbenga Adewole Adepoju; and retired Deputy Inspector-General of Police Ivy Uche Okoronkwo.

Other attendees included retired senior police officers, traditional rulers, representatives of sister security agencies, members of the Police Officers’ Wives Association and other distinguished guests.

The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to preserving its institutional heritage and recognising officers whose contributions helped shape the organisation, while maintaining professional advancement based on competence, professionalism and merit.

The statement was signed by CSP Ani Iniedu, Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja, on October 14, 2026.

IGP Disu Launches Book on History of Pioneer Policewomen in Nigeria