The Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), led by the wife of the Inspector-General of Police, Mrs Olufunmilola Disu, has reaffirmed its commitment towards supporting the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) through welfare and empowerment initiatives aimed at strengthening police families and enhancing national security.
This assurance was given by the President of POWA, during a courtesy visit to the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, on Tuesday.
Describing the visit as both symbolic and strategic, Mrs. Disu noted that POWA’s engagement goes beyond protocol, positioning the Association as a key partner in reinforcing the human foundation of the Nigeria Police Force.
“We come not merely in protocol, but in partnership,” she said, emphasising that the strength of the Force is closely tied to the well-being of its families.
She commended the IGP’s leadership for providing clear direction anchored in reform, accountability, and institutional strengthening, adding that POWA fully aligns with this vision.
According to her, the Association remains committed to initiatives that uplift morale, promote family stability, and reinforce the values of service, dignity, and discipline within and beyond the barracks.
Highlighting recent interventions, Mrs. Disu revealed that POWA’s free eye care initiative has provided critical vision support services to over 1,000 police families, significantly improving their quality of life and productivity. She added that plans are underway to expand the programme nationwide.
She further outlined POWA’s strategic priorities, with a focus on mental and emotional health support, economic empowerment, education and youth development, national unity, and the strengthening of welfare systems.
“When families are strengthened, institutions are steadied; and when institutions are steady, nations are secure,” she stated.
Responding, the Inspector-General of Police expressed deep appreciation to the wives of officers, describing them as the unseen backbone of the Force and a critical pillar of its effectiveness.
Welcoming the delegation, the IGP noted that the visit represented more than an official engagement, describing it as “a powerful show of solidarity” and “family visiting family.”
He acknowledged the immense sacrifices made by police families, particularly the uncertainty that defines the profession.
“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 stressed that the role played by officers’ wives is both demanding and indispensable.
“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 commended their role in raising children and maintaining stability on the home front despite the demands of policing, noting that the success of many police children is a testament to their dedication.
Reaffirming the importance of family support in policing, he concluded that the contribution of officers’ wives makes the demanding nature of police work more bearable.
“Our job is a difficult one, but you make it easier. You make our homes worth coming back to.”