By Ehis Agbon, Kaduna, Nigeria, 6 June 2024.
In a landmark decision that underscores a firm commitment to gender inclusivity within the Nigeria Police Force (NPF), Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has appointed Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Yetunde O. Longe as the first female Force Secretary. This historic appointment reflects the IGP’s non-negotiable dedication to promoting gender sensitivity in the Force’s appointments and operations.
AIG Yetunde Longe’s illustrious career began on March 3, 1990, when she joined the NPF as a Cadet Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP). She has since accumulated extensive experience and a robust skill set, earning her a well-deserved reputation for dedication and competence in various roles. Longe holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Forensic Toxicology, a qualification that has significantly enhanced her capabilities in crime management and investigation.
Her professional journey 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. These courses have fortified her expertise and prepared her for complex challenges within the Force.
Throughout her career, AIG Longe has held numerous pivotal positions. Her roles have included serving as an Administrative Officer, Crime Officer, and Commandant in Lagos. She has also been the 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. Additionally, she has served as the Deputy Commissioner of Police Admin at Zone 2, Lagos. Before her recent appointment, Longe was the Commissioner of Police for the Port Authority Police, Eastern Command, Port Harcourt, and later the AIG in the Department of Training and Development at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.
The Inspector-General of Police has emphasized that this appointment is part of a broader strategy to foster an inclusive environment within the NPF. By ensuring that merit and capability are the primary criteria for advancement, the Force aims to empower female officers to achieve leadership roles. IGP Egbetokun reiterated that the inclusion of women in strategic positions is essential for the comprehensive development and effectiveness of the Police Force.
“The Nigeria Police Force remains committed to promoting gender equality and empowering our female officers,” stated the IGP. “This appointment is a testament to our dedication to creating an environment where all officers, regardless of gender, have the opportunity to excel based on their merit and capabilities.”
This progressive step not only marks a significant milestone for the NPF but also sets a precedent for other institutions in Nigeria, showcasing the critical importance of gender inclusivity and equality in leadership positions.
Read Press Release below
PRESS RELEASE
GENDER INCLUSIVITY: IGP EGBETOKUN APPOINTS FIRST FEMALE FORCE SECRETARY, AIG YETUNDE LONGE
Affirms Non-Negotiable Commitment to Gender Sensitivity in Appointments
In furtherance of the vision to ensure gender inclusivity and equality in all aspects of appointments and operations within the Nigeria Police Force, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has made an historic appointment of Assistant Inspector General of Police, AIG Yetunde O. Longe as the first female Force Secretary.
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. She holds a Bachelors 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.
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. Prior to her new 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, Force Headquarters, Abuja.
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 promoting gender equality and empowering female officers to attain leadership positions within the Force. The IGP emphasizes that the inclusion of women in strategic roles is crucial for the comprehensive development and effectiveness of the Police Force assuring that the Force will continue to foster an inclusive environment where merit and capability are the primary criteria for advancement, irrespective of gender.
ACP OLUMUYIWA ADEJOBI, mnipr, mipra, fCAI,
FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER,
FORCE HEADQUARTERS,
ABUJA
5TH JUNE, 2024
