Nigeria to Produce First Female Inspector-General of Police Soon – AIG Abubakar-Baju

Women in the Nigeria Police Force Are Making Strides

Nigeria may soon witness the appointment of its first female Inspector-General of Police (IGP), according to Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Aishatu Abubakar-Baju, the most senior female officer in the force. In a recent interview with Channels Television, AIG Abubakar-Baju expressed confidence that it is only a matter of time before a woman is chosen for the top position.

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During the interview, she emphasized that the selection of the IGP is at the discretion of the President of Nigeria, as only one person can hold the office at a time. However, she praised the increasing opportunities for women to grow and excel within the Nigeria Police Force.

Appointment of IGP Is Based on Merit, Not Gender

Addressing the possibility of a female IGP, AIG Abubakar-Baju stated that gender is not a determining factor in the selection process. She explained that the President appoints the IGP based on merit and competence, regardless of gender.

“The position of the Inspector General of Police is at the discretion of Mr. President. It’s whosoever the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria finds worthy. Only one IG can be in office at any time; there cannot be two IGs,” she said.

She further highlighted that women in the force are being given opportunities to develop themselves and contribute significantly to national security. According to her, these opportunities are crucial in enabling female officers to climb the ranks within the police force.

Women Are Advancing in the Police Force

Reflecting on her personal journey in the force, AIG Abubakar-Baju noted that she joined the police with a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) degree and has since obtained a master’s degree and a PhD, along with several other professional qualifications. She believes this demonstrates the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to personal and professional development, regardless of gender.

She reassured that female officers are making remarkable progress in the force and will continue to break barriers.

“Women are doing very well so far. There can only be one Inspector General of Police and I don’t think it has anything to do with gender. It’s just at the discretion of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria; whosoever he finds worthy of that office, of course, he will give them,” she added.

The Road to the First Female IGP

Nigeria has never had a female IGP, but the increasing presence of women in top ranks within the police force suggests that the glass ceiling may soon be broken. Women in law enforcement are steadily proving their competence and leadership abilities, paving the way for greater gender inclusivity in top security positions.

With more female officers taking on high-ranking roles and demonstrating their ability to handle key responsibilities, the likelihood of Nigeria appointing its first female IGP in the near future appears stronger than ever.