by Nurat Uthman
The Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has appointed a new female Force Secretary to promote inclusivity within the police force.
The Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, saying the move is part of efforts to entrench gender representation in the Nigeria Police Force.
He said the newly appointed Force Secretary is Assistant Inspector-General (AIG) Rhoda Adetutu Olofu, a seasoned police officer with an impressive track record.
“Her new appointment comes as part of the IGP’s vision of enhancing the NPF’s efficiency and the recent gender policy changes aimed at increasing the representation of women in key positions within the Nigerian Police Force,” the statement read.
“This decision not only showcases the IGP’s commitment to gender inclusivity but also reflects a broader shift towards recognizing and utilizing the diverse talents within the force, regardless of gender as it aligns with global trends in law enforcement that recognize the value of diverse leadership in enhancing community relations and improving overall policing effectiveness.”
Before her appointment, Rhoda served as the AIG Maritime Police Command at the Force Headquarters Annex in Lagos as the 20th Assistant Inspector-General of Police to hold the position and, notably, the third female to head the Maritime Command.
“As the Nigerian Police Force continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of the nation, the Inspector-General of Police reaffirms his commitment to the progressive development of the Nigeria Police Force and the promotion of gender inclusivity in all spheres,” Adejobi said.
Olofu succeeds AIG Yetunde Longe who served as the 1st Force Secretary in June, 2024.
Longe pulled out of the Force on Tuesday after attaining the mandatory retirement age of 60 years.
The pulling-out ceremony was held at the Police College, Ikeja, and was graced by police officers, family members, and friends of Longe, who retired as an Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG).
The Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of South-West, Mr. Abiodun Alabi, was among the senior officers present at the ceremony.
