The Police Officers’ Wives Association, POWA, has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force, as the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, recognised the critical sacrifices made by officers’ wives in strengthening national security.
The assurance was given on Tuesday in Abuja when the POWA President, Olufunmilola Disu, led members of the association on a courtesy visit to the IGP at the Force Headquarters.
Speaking during the visit, Mrs. Disu described POWA’s role as strategic, stressing that the association remains a vital partner in reinforcing the human foundation of the police institution. She said the group’s engagement goes beyond routine protocol.
“We come not merely in protocol, but in partnership,” she said, noting that the strength of the Force is closely tied to the well-being of police families.
She commended the IGP’s leadership style, which she said is anchored on reform, accountability, and institutional strengthening, adding that POWA fully aligns with this vision.
Highlighting ongoing interventions, the POWA President disclosed that the association’s free eye care programme has already benefited over 1,000 police families, improving their productivity and quality of life. She added that plans are underway to expand the initiative nationwide.
Mrs. Disu further outlined POWA’s focus areas, including mental and emotional health support, economic empowerment, education, youth development, and the promotion of national unity through strengthened welfare systems.
“When families are strengthened, institutions are steadied and when institutions are steady, nations are secure,” she said.
In his response, the IGP expressed deep appreciation to officers’ wives, describing them as the “unseen backbone” of the Force and a critical pillar of its effectiveness.
He noted that the visit symbolised solidarity, calling it “family visiting family,” while acknowledging the uncertainties and risks that define policing.
“Every day, we tell you, ‘I’ll see you tonight,’ but deep down, we know it is not guaranteed. We step out each day unsure of what lies ahead, yet we go because duty calls,” he said.
The police chief emphasised that the role played by officers’ wives is both demanding and indispensable, particularly in maintaining stability on the home front.
“What you do is one of the most difficult jobs in the world. You hold things together while we are away, and your sacrifices are not taken for granted,” he added.
He concluded by reaffirming that the support of police families makes the demanding nature of policing more bearable.
“Our job is a difficult one, but you make it easier. You make our homes worth coming back to.”
