The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has appointed Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG Yetunde Longe, as the first female Force Secretary in the history of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
In a statement on Wednesday, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, announced that the appointment aligns with the vision of promoting gender inclusivity and equality within the Police Force. Adejobi highlighted that Longe brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role, having demonstrated exceptional dedication and competence throughout her career.
“She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Forensic Toxicology, which has significantly contributed to her proficiency in crime management and investigation. Her professional development is further enriched by her participation in advanced courses such as the Advanced Detective Course and Intermediate Command Course at Police Staff College Jos, and the Protection of Civilians course in Italy,” Adejobi stated.
Since her appointment as a Cadet ASP on March 3, 1990, Longe has held several key positions. These include serving as the Deputy Commissioner of Police at the State Criminal Investigation Department in Lagos and Bauchi States, and most recently as the Commissioner of Police for the Port Authority Police, Eastern Command, Port Harcourt. She also served as the Assistant Inspector General of Police in the Department of Training and Development at Force Headquarters, Abuja.
“Throughout her illustrious career, AIG Longe has held several key positions, including Administrative Officer, Crime Officer, Commandant in Lagos, Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Corporate Investment at the NPF Cooperative; Area Commander in Lagos, Deputy Commissioner of Police at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in both Bauchi and Lagos States, and DCP Admin at Zone 2, Lagos,” Adejobi noted.
Inspector-General Egbetokun emphasised that the inclusion of women in strategic roles is crucial for the comprehensive development and effectiveness of the police force. “The Inspector General of Police reiterates that gender sensitivity in police appointments and operations remains a non-negotiable principle as his administration is poised to promote gender equality and empower female officers to attain leadership positions within the Force,” Adejobi added.
Egbetokun assured that the Force will continue to foster an inclusive environment where merit and capability are the primary criteria for advancement, irrespective of gender. “The inclusion of women in strategic roles is crucial for the comprehensive development and effectiveness of the Police Force,” he stated.