The International Association of Women Police (IAWP) Africa Region Training Conference officially commenced on July 2, 2024, with a grand opening ceremony at the Nigeria Police Resource Centre, Abuja. The event was graced by the Wife of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Her Excellency Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who was represented by the Wife of the Honourable Minister of Works, Her Excellency Rachel Umahi, as the special guest of honour.
Theme and Objectives
The conference, themed “Addressing Africa’s Security Challenges and Safety through Collaboration and Inclusivity,” aims to train women police and other security and law enforcement officers. The goal is to equip them with the necessary knowledge and skills to combat crimes and security threats in a modern and evolving society, with a particular focus on their respective regions across the African continent.
Attendees and Delegates
The training program has attracted 520 delegates from over 18 African countries, including Nigeria, Angola, Botswana, Ghana, Liberia, Kenya, Malawi, Morocco, Niger, Namibia, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Congo. This diverse group of participants underscores the pan-African scope and significance of the event.
Dignitaries in Attendance
In addition to the First Lady’s representative, the conference saw the attendance of several high-profile dignitaries, including:
- Former Vice President of Liberia
- United Nations Representatives
- Minister of State for Police Affairs
- Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)
- Chairman of the Senate Committee on Police Affairs
- Chairman of the House Committee on Police Institutions
- Other strategic stakeholders and notable personalities.
Launch of NPF Gender Policy
The Chief Host of the conference, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun PhD., NPM., launched the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) Gender Policy. This policy is part of his vision of reform for the Nigeria Police Force, emphasizing gender sensitivity and inclusivity in policy and operations. The IGP reaffirmed the commitment of the current police leadership to ensuring gender inclusivity at all levels of the force.
Significance of the Conference
The IAWP African Regional Training Conference marks a significant milestone in the pursuit of a modern, gender-sensitive, and gender-inclusive police force. It highlights the progressive steps being taken towards reforming law enforcement practices to better address contemporary security challenges. The event is expected to foster collaboration and inclusivity, thereby enhancing the effectiveness of police forces across Africa.
The conference continues with various training sessions and workshops designed to empower women in law enforcement, promote best practices, and strengthen international cooperation in tackling security issues.
