The President of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), Olufunmilola Disu, on Tuesday formally launched the Lagos phase of the POWA CARES Initiative, a nationwide programme aimed at improving the welfare of police families.
Speaking at the event in Lagos, Disu said the initiative was designed to “touch lives and build sustainable futures for police families across Nigeria,” stressing that the well-being of officers’ families plays a critical role in national security.
“Today is not merely about an event. It is about a vision,” she said. “A vision that recognises a fundamental truth often overlooked in conversations around national security: that the strength of any police force is anchored in the well-being of its families.”
She noted that global evidence shows that when families of security personnel are supported, officers perform their duties with greater focus and effectiveness.
The POWA president said the Lagos programme builds on the success of the first phase held in Abuja, where over 1,000 beneficiaries received eye care services and medical support.
“That first phase was not only impactful; it was instructive. It confirmed both the scale of need and the readiness of POWA to deliver structured, high-impact interventions,” she stated.
According to her, the Lagos phase will provide free eye screening and treatment for more than 1,000 beneficiaries, alongside dental care, corrective eyewear and general medical consultations.
She added that the initiative also extends beyond healthcare to include nursing scholarships, financial grants for 200 families and the distribution of Cowry transport cards to ease mobility.
Disu further highlighted efforts to promote inclusion, noting that some families would have opportunities to engage with top government and police leadership.
“These moments are not merely symbolic; they affirm that police families are seen, valued, and respected,” she said.
The programme will also feature sensitisation sessions for young people on drug abuse, cultism, and sexual and reproductive health, which she described as critical to safeguarding the future of communities.
She explained that POWA CARES represents “a deliberate shift from isolated welfare gestures to a structured, scalable, and sustainable framework for social protection,” driven by collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, government institutions and development partners.
Disu expressed appreciation to Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and his wife, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, for their support, as well as medical professionals involved in the initiative.
“To our beneficiaries, this initiative is for you. It is designed to support your health, ease your burdens, and open new opportunities,” she said.
She emphasised that strengthening families ultimately strengthens institutions and the nation.
“In closing, it is my honour to formally declare the Lagos Phase of the POWA CARES Initiative open,” Disu said. #Securitynewsalert.com
