By Mercy Gadia
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on Monday, commended the Nigeria Police Trust Fund for launching an empowerment programme targeted at wives of junior police officers, describing it as a strategic investment in the welfare and operational effectiveness of the Force.
Speaking at the programme held in Abuja, Disu said the initiative goes beyond the distribution of empowerment items, noting that it directly strengthens the resilience and stability of police families.
“It is indeed a great pleasure to join you today at this commendable initiative organised by the Nigeria Police Trust Fund to empower the wives of our junior police officers,” he said.
The IGP stressed that supporting police families remains critical to enhancing the morale and productivity of officers, who often operate under demanding and hazardous conditions.
“Today, we are not merely distributing empowerment items or providing economic opportunities; we are making a meaningful investment in the stability, resilience, and wellbeing of police families,” he stated.
He acknowledged the sacrifices made by spouses of police personnel, particularly those married to junior officers, noting that their support contributes significantly to national security.
“Behind every dedicated police officer is often a supportive spouse whose sacrifices, encouragement, and unwavering commitment provide the emotional strength needed to serve our nation,” Disu added.
The police boss urged beneficiaries to maximise the opportunities provided through the programme, encouraging them to pursue financial independence and long-term prosperity.
“As the leadership of the Force continues to prioritise the welfare of our personnel, we recognise that the wellbeing of police officers cannot be separated from the wellbeing of their families,” he said.
Also speaking, the National President of the Police Officers’ Wives Association, Mrs Olufunmilola Disu, described the initiative as a landmark intervention that would create sustainable livelihoods for police families.
She said the programme represents “the beginning of new opportunities, renewed hope and greater economic independence for hundreds of police families.”
According to her, empowering police families is not an act of charity but a strategic approach to strengthening the effectiveness and professionalism of the Nigeria Police Force.
“National security begins at home. When a police officer reports for duty, another form of service begins at home,” she said.
She added that the initiative aligns with POWA’s vision of improving the welfare of police families through skills acquisition, entrepreneurship support, and social interventions.
Mrs Disu commended the Nigeria Police Trust Fund for demonstrating leadership in welfare support and called on other organisations to emulate the gesture.
“Sustainable welfare thrives on partnership. Today’s programme demonstrates what is possible when the Nigeria Police Trust Fund, the Nigeria Police Force and POWA work with a shared purpose,” she said.
She further assured that POWA would work closely with stakeholders to ensure the sustainability and expansion of the initiative across the country.
The empowerment programme is expected to equip beneficiaries with vocational skills and entrepreneurship opportunities aimed at improving household income and strengthening the overall welfare of police families.