Nigeria Police Force gets first female Secretary

The Inspector-General of police, Kayode Egbetokun, has appointed Yetunde Longe, an Assistant Inspector-General of Police, as the first female secretary of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

Egbetokun said the “historic appointment” is “in furtherance of the vision to ensure gender inclusivity and equality in all aspects of appointments and operations within the Nigeria Police Force”.

In a statement on Wednesday, Muyiwa Adejobi, force spokesperson, said “Longe brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role”.

“Since her appointment as a Cadet ASP on March 3, 1990, she has demonstrated exceptional dedication and competence across various capacities within the NPF,” the statement reads.

“She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Forensic Toxicology, which has significantly contributed to her proficiency in crime management and investigation.

“Her professional development is further enriched by her participation in advanced courses such as the Advanced Detective Course and Intermediate Command Course at Police Staff College Jos and the Protection of Civilians course in Italy.

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“Throughout her illustrious career, AIG Longe has held several key positions, including Administrative Officer, Crime Officer, Commandant in Lagos, Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Corporate Investment at the NPF Cooperative, Area Commander in Lagos, Deputy Commissioner of Police at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in both Bauchi and Lagos States, and DCP Admin at Zone 2, Lagos.

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“Prior to her new appointment, she was Commissioner of Police for the Port Authority Police, Eastern Command, Port Harcourt, and later Assistant Inspector General of Police in the Department of Training and Development, Force Headquarters, Abuja.

“The Inspector General of Police reiterates that gender sensitivity in police appointments and operations remains a non-negotiable principle, as his administration is poised to promote gender equality and empower female officers to attain leadership positions within the Force.

“The IGP emphasises that the inclusion of women in strategic roles is crucial for the comprehensive development and effectiveness of the Police Force, assuring that the Force will continue to foster an inclusive environment where merit and capability are the primary criteria for advancement, irrespective of gender.”