Nigeria Police Chief Appoints First Female Force Secretary, AIG

In a landmark move towards gender inclusivity, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has appointed Assistant Inspector General of Police, Yetunde Longe, as the first female Force Secretary. The announcement was made in a statement signed by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, on Wednesday.

The appointment aligns with the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to gender equality in all aspects of its operations and appointments. According to the statement, “AIG Longe brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role. Since her appointment as a Cadet ASP on March 3, 1990, she has demonstrated exceptional dedication and competence across various capacities within the NPF.”

AIG Longe holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Forensic Toxicology, which has greatly enhanced her proficiency in crime management and investigation. Her professional development includes advanced training such as the Advanced Detective Course and Intermediate Command Course at the Police Staff College in Jos, and the Protection of Civilians course in Italy.

Throughout her 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, and Deputy Commissioner of Police at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in both Bauchi and Lagos States. She also served as DCP Admin at Zone 2, Lagos. Prior to her current appointment, she was Commissioner of Police for the Port Authority Police, Eastern Command, Port Harcourt, and later Assistant Inspector General of Police in the Department of Training and Development at Force Headquarters, Abuja.

The Inspector-General of Police reiterated that gender sensitivity in police appointments and operations is a non-negotiable principle of his administration, which aims to promote gender equality and empower female officers to attain leadership positions within the Force. He emphasized that the inclusion of women in strategic roles is crucial for the comprehensive development and effectiveness of the Police Force, assuring that merit and capability will remain the primary criteria for advancement, irrespective of gender.