The Chairman of the Police Service Commission (PSC), DIG Hashimu Salihu Argungu (Rtd), mni, has called for greater gender sensitivity and balance in the management of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) personnel.
He emphasised that equity must serve as the cornerstone of inclusive and effective policing.
DIG Argungu made this statement while receiving a delegation from the NPF Gender Policy Team at the Commission’s headquarters. He reiterated the importance of incorporating gender considerations into recruitment processes and the assignment of duties, stressing that recognition of human diversity is essential for successful policing outcomes.
He commended the Nigeria Police Force for its bold steps toward institutional transformation and assured the delegation of the Commission’s unwavering support in aligning recruitment, disciplinary measures, and promotional protocols with the principles of the revised gender policy. The PSC Chairman emphasized the need to build a police institution that upholds equity, professionalism, and respect for human rights.
Leading the delegation, Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Aishatu Abubakar Baju highlighted the rationale behind the revised gender policy. She stated that the new framework aims to better equip the NPF to understand and respond to the diverse needs and interests of the population it serves, especially women and other vulnerable groups.
AIG Baju explained that the overarching goal of the policy is to foster human rights, social justice, and equity while eliminating gender-based discrimination within the NPF’s laws, regulations, and practices. She underscored the importance of strengthening the Force’s capacity to address gender-based violence and sexual abuse—both within the organisation and across Nigerian society.
She further advocated for the recognition of childbearing as a national service, noting that women often face career setbacks due to reproductive responsibilities and societal expectations.
In his remarks, Hon. Justice Paul Adamu Galumje (Rtd), the Commissioner representing the Judiciary in the Commission, asserted that justice should not be dispensed ‘à la carte’. He stressed that gender equality must be rooted in the principles of natural justice and fairness. According to him, women are capable contributors to nation-building and must no longer be sidelined. “There are no laws in this country that discriminate against women,” he added.
DIG Taiwo Lakanu (Rtd), fdc, Commissioner representing the Police in the PSC, praised AIG Baju for her excellent presentation. He assured the team of the Commission’s continued support in implementing the gender policy.
