The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has appointed an Assistant Inspector General of Police, Yetunde Longe, as the first female Secretary of the Nigeria Police Force.

In a statement on Wednesday, the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuiya Adejobi, said the appointment was in furtherance of the vision to ensure gender inclusivity and equality in all aspects of appointments and operations within the Nigeria Police Force.

Adejobi noted that Longe brought a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role and had demonstrated exceptional dedication and competence within the Force.

He said, “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.”

Adejobi added that the new secretary held several key positions since her appointment as a Cadet ASP on March 3, 1990.

She was a deputy commissioner of police at the State Criminal Investigation Department in Lagos and Bauchi states and, before her new appointment, Longe was the 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 Force while assuring that the Force will continue to foster an inclusive environment where merit and capability are the primary criteria for advancement, irrespective of gender,” Adejobi said.