The Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) has reaffirmed its commitment to support the leadership of the Inspector-General of Police through welfare and empowerment initiatives aimed at strengthening police families and enhancing national security.
POWA President, Mrs Olufunmilola Disu, gave the assurance 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 said POWA’s engagement goes beyond protocol and positions the Association as a partner in reinforcing the human foundation of the Nigeria Police Force. “We come not merely in protocol, but in partnership,” she said, adding that the strength of the Force is closely tied to the well-being of its families.
She commended the IGP’s leadership for providing direction anchored in reform, accountability, and institutional strengthening, noting that POWA aligns with this vision. According to her, the Association remains committed to initiatives that uplift morale, promote family stability, and reinforce values of service, dignity, and discipline within and beyond the barracks.
Mrs Disu revealed that POWA’s free eye care initiative has provided vision support services to over 1,000 police families, improving their quality of life and productivity, with plans underway to expand the programme nationwide. She listed POWA’s strategic priorities as 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 said.
Responding, IGP Olatunji Disu expressed appreciation to the wives of officers, describing them as the unseen backbone of the Force and a critical pillar of its effectiveness. He said the visit represented more than an official engagement, calling it “a powerful show of solidarity” and “family visiting family.”
The IGP acknowledged the 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.
He stressed that the role played by officers’ wives is 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 at home despite the demands of policing, noting that the success of many police children is a testament to their dedication.
The IGP reaffirmed the importance of family support in policing and said 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.”
