The President of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) and wife of the Inspector-General of Police, Mrs. Olufunmilola Disu, has called on women across Nigeria to embrace mentorship, opportunity-sharing, and advocacy as essential tools for advancing gender equality and national development.
Mrs. Disu made the call while delivering her address to commemorate the International Women’s Day 2026 celebration, themed “Give to Gain.”
Speaking at the event, she described the theme as a powerful reminder that real and lasting progress is built on contribution rather than accumulation, stressing that generosity and shared responsibility remain critical to building a more equitable and inclusive society.
According to her, women across the world continue to demonstrate courage, resilience, compassion, and vision in different spheres of life. She noted that the celebration recognises mothers nurturing future leaders, entrepreneurs creating opportunities, professionals driving institutions, and countless unsung women whose daily efforts contribute meaningfully to societal progress.
“At the heart of the ‘Give to Gain’ campaign is a simple but transformative principle: generosity is not a loss—it is an investment. When we give knowledge, we gain wisdom. When we give support, we gain strength. When we give opportunities, we gain a more equitable society,” she said.
Mrs. Disu emphasised that the Police Officers’ Wives Association was founded on the values of compassion, collective support, and shared responsibility, noting that empowering police families ultimately strengthens the Nigeria Police Force.
She further stressed that gender equality should not be seen as a women-only issue but as a national development priority. She therefore called on institutions, communities, and individuals to ensure that women have equal access to education, leadership opportunities, and economic participation.
As part of the campaign, she urged women to adopt three key commitments: mentorship, opportunity creation, and advocacy for justice and protection against gender-based violence.
“Let every accomplished woman mentor at least one younger woman or girl. Open doors for others by recommending and supporting them. And most importantly, speak up for justice and policies that protect women and girls,” she stated.
Mrs. Disu also invited men to support the movement by promoting respect, inclusion, and shared leadership, noting that societies thrive when men and women work together toward equality and progress.
She reaffirmed POWA’s commitment to empowering women through skills acquisition programmes, educational support for girls, health initiatives, and community outreach efforts aimed at strengthening families within police communities.
She concluded by urging Nigerians to transform the celebration into a movement of generosity and inclusion.
“Let this International Women’s Day not end as a ceremony but begin as a movement of intentional giving. When we give, we gain a more just and equal nation,” she added.
About Author
