The Jigawa State Police Command has celebrated 70 years of women in the Nigeria Police Force with free medical outreach and a walk against sexual and gender-based violence across the state.
PUNCH Online learnt that the anniversary marks seven decades of courage, service and the contributions of female officers to national security since their formal entry into the force.
The event, held on Saturday at the Ultra-Modern Market in Dutse, the Jigawa State capital, was led by the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Medical Services, ACP Dr Adebayo Oluwatoyin Oladeselu, who represented the Commissioner of Police, CP Dahiru Muhammad.
Speaking at the event, ACP Oladeselu highlighted the significant impact of women in policing, saying, “Women have continued to play an invaluable role in policing, community engagement, and national development.”
She praised their seven decades of service, noting that the anniversary underscores the strength female officers bring to the force.
According to her, the medical outreach and sensitisation activities were designed “to boost trust and confidence between the police and local communities,” adding that such programmes enhance police-public relations and support community health.
Oladeselu reaffirmed the command’s commitment to protecting vulnerable groups, saying the anti-SGBV walk demonstrates “the Nigeria Police Force’s determination to protect vulnerable groups,” while also promoting gender inclusion and resident safety under CP Dahiru Muhammad’s leadership.
Earlier, the anniversary activities kicked off with free medical check-ups for residents, drawing large crowds. Counselling sessions were also held to guide wellness and safety while strengthening community ties.
Female officers later led a lively road walk against sexual and gender-based violence, drawing attention to women’s rights and safety across Jigawa.
Residents who benefited from the outreach shared their experiences with our correspondent.
Amina Yusuf, a 45-year-old mother of three from Dutse Metro, received free counselling and essential medication. “This is a game-changer for families like mine who can’t always afford clinic visits,” she said, commending the police for helping close healthcare gaps.
A 52-year-old trader, Malam Garba, who joined the anti-SGBV walk and received a health screening, described the event as inspiring. “Seeing women officers lead this fight against violence inspires us all,” he said. “It’s about time we saw such bold steps.”
Zainab Ahmed, a 28-year-old student, said the counselling sessions enlightened her on preventing SGBV. She also received free medication for an elderly relative. “It’s empowering to know the police are our allies in justice,” she added.
Our correspondent reports that the walk began at the State Police Headquarters in Dutse and ended at the New Market, with participants chanting messages to raise awareness and prevent SGBV, particularly against vulnerable groups.
