The National President of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), Chief Mrs. Olufunmilola Disu, has reinforced her commitment to improving the welfare and economic well-being of police families through a two-day outreach programme across police barracks in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The outreach, held ahead of the 2026 POWA National Convention scheduled for July 16–18, featured surprise visits to the markets at Area C Police Barracks, Nyanya, and 44 Police Mobile Force (PMF) Barracks, Kuje. Accompanied by members of the POWA management team, Mrs. Disu chose an unannounced approach to engage directly with women traders, widows, and spouses of serving police officers.
During the visits, the POWA President moved through the markets, speaking with traders and listening to their personal experiences and economic challenges. She observed that many of the businesses were operating with limited stock due to financial constraints.
Touched by their stories, Mrs. Disu immediately provided cash assistance, business grants, food items, and starter packs to selected beneficiaries. The intervention was aimed at helping them restock their businesses, improve their livelihoods, and build long-term economic resilience.
Speaking during the outreach, Mrs. Disu explained that the visits were intentionally unscheduled to allow her to witness the realities facing police families firsthand.
“I wanted to meet our women in their everyday environment, listen to them, and see their challenges for myself. It is only when we understand their realities that we can provide support that truly meets their needs,” she said.
She noted that the intervention forms part of the POWA CARES Initiative, a programme focused on healthcare, welfare, and economic empowerment for police families. According to her, the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, by promoting sustainable support systems for women and families within the police community.
Mrs. Disu further explained that the outreach reflects the objectives of the 2026 POWA National Convention, themed “The Resilient Woman: Navigating Life’s Challenges with Strength, Purpose and Grace.” The convention will focus on healthcare and mental wellness, economic empowerment, and strengthening support structures for police families nationwide.
Beneficiaries expressed appreciation for the intervention. Abigail John, one of the traders, described the visit as unexpected and life-changing.
“She came to my shop, saw the challenges I was facing and decided to support my business. I am truly grateful for her kindness,” she said.
Another beneficiary, Rebecca Atahiru, a widow whose husband died while serving in the Nigeria Police Force 15 years ago, said the support renewed her hope and encouraged her to continue striving despite years of hardship.
Similarly, Grace Ameh, an egg trader and wife of a police inspector, praised the initiative and encouraged more police officers’ wives to participate actively in POWA programmes designed to improve their welfare and economic independence.
The two-day outreach underscores POWA’s continued dedication to supporting widows of fallen officers, empowering women entrepreneurs, and enhancing the welfare of police families through practical and sustainable interventions.
