RAYMOND TEDUNJAYE, Lagos.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun PhD, have extolled the critical role of members of the Police Officers Wife Associations (POWA) at improving the socio-economic conditions in the Police community.
The duo who spoke Wednesday at the opening ceremony of the 2025 POWA National Convention, themed “Unlocking POWA Potentials and Transformational Leadership”, held at Eko Hotel Lagos pointed out that the Association plays a pivotal role at ensuring the well being of police families.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, who was the special guest of honour and declared the event open, emphasized that POWA has served as a pillar of emotion and economic support, especially for women and children affected by the occupations demands placed on police officers.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, the governor applauded POWA’s enduring contributions to the well-being of police families and described the convention’s theme as both relevant and urgent.
According to Sanwo-Olu, “POWA brings together a diverse community of women committed to improving socio-economic conditions in police communities.
“The association plays a critical role in fostering unity, providing support to law enforcement families, and advancing grassroots development.
“Since its inception, he said, POWA has served as a pillar of emotional and economic support, especially for women and children affected by the occupational demands placed on police officers.”
In his key note address, IGP Egbetokun reaffirmed the NPF’s support for the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), describing it as a strategic ally in enhancing the welfare of police families and strengthening the social fabric that supports national security.
The Inspector-General of Police who was represented by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of Zone 2, AIG Adegoke Fayoade, described POWA as more than a ceremonial body.
He said the association now plays a vital role in supporting police families, advancing women’s empowerment, and bridging trust between the Force and the civilian population.
Going down memory lane from informal support networks in the 1970s to its formal establishment in 1984, the IGP praised its transformation into a national platform focused on vocational training, community outreach, and youth mentorship. He emphasized that the future of POWA lies in embracing transformational leadership that inspires vision, promotes integrity, fosters innovation, and nurtures individual growth.
He urged members to see themselves as change agents whose influence extends beyond police barracks into broader societal development.
In her address, the National President of POWA, Mrs. Elizabeth Egbetokun, emphasized the importance of empowering women to take up leadership roles that impact their homes, communities, and the country at large. She said the association is entering a new phase that prioritizes innovation, mentorship, and proactive engagement.
According to Mrs. Egbetokun, unlocking POWA’s potential requires deliberate steps to harness the strengths of its members, encourage continuous learning, and promote a culture of service and dignity.
The convention served as a platform for reflection and renewal, as members shared insights on strengthening family resilience, advancing economic empowerment programs, and deepening community ties.
As POWA looks ahead, its leadership says it remains committed to shaping a future where police families are not only supported but actively engaged in building stronger, more secure societies.
Dignitaries at the event include Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, Lagos State Commissioner of Women and Poverty Alleviation Mrs. Dada, Lagos State Commissioner of Police Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, the Oba of Lagos HRM Babatunde Akinolu represented by three white cap chiefs and host of others.