By Adewole Kehinde
“Gender equality is the goal that will help abolish poverty that will create more equal economies, fairer societies and happier men, women and children.” – Graça Machel
On 29 May 2024, the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun approved the posting of two senior police officers to strategic positions within the Nigeria Police Force as part of ongoing efforts to bolster the efficiency of the Force and multinational approach to tackling crimes.
According to a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, AIG Yetunde Longe has been appointed the Force Secretary.
When I saw the appointment, I was elated because the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun is the most gender-friendly IGP in police history (I stand to be corrected).
When we talk about Gender-friendly, I am referring to creating an environment or approach that is inclusive and accommodating of individuals of all gender identities.
Also, gender-inclusive refers to language, policies, practices, and environments that are designed to be inclusive of people of all gender identities.
This entails speaking and acting in a way that is courteous and affirming of persons of all gender identities, as well as offering facilities and services that are secure and accessible to everyone.
It’s about treating people with different gender identities and expressions with respect and hospitality.
This is avoiding assuming anything about someone’s gender identification from their outward appearance or the conventionally accepted male/female binary.
Regardless of how someone identifies, it entails speaking in a gender-neutral manner and establishing environments where everyone feels seen, appreciated, and included.
Recognizing the pivotal role women play in ensuring effective policing and community engagement, IGP Egbetokun approved the hosting of the International Association of Women’s Police Conference (African Chapter) in Abuja Nigeria.
Egbetokun is an IGP who values the critical importance of gender sensitivity within the Police Force.
The International Association of Women’s Police Conference (African Chapter) is aimed at bringing together women in law enforcement globally to share insights, best practices, and strategies for advancing women’s roles in policing and enhancing their contributions to national security in a significant stride towards fostering gender sensitivity and empowerment.
The IGP is a man that has a high commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to promoting inclusivity and providing a conducive environment for the professional growth of women in law enforcement.
The appointment of AIG Yetunde O. Longe, as the first female Force Secretary, is a sincerely historic move by IGP Egbetokun. It has shown that we all have the same rights and opportunities as each other.
AIG Yetunde Longe no doubt will bring her wealth of experience and expertise to her new role as she has demonstrated exceptional dedication and competence across various capacities within the Nigeria Police.
She will be responsible for overseeing the secretarial functions of the Force Headquarters, ensuring that policies and directives of the IGP are implemented effectively, as well as coordinating the affairs of senior police officers.
With the appointment of AIG Longe as the Force Secretary, IGP Egbetokun has once again demonstrated vision, communication, integrity, empathy, decisiveness adaptability, accountability and inspiration to ensure that female police personnel can get to the peak of their career.
Adewole Kehinde is the publisher of Swift Reporters and can be reached at 08166240846. email: kennyadewole@gmail.com
