Rep, Ministry back increased recruitment of women into police

House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas has said the National Assembly is poised to address the challenges women face in their efforts to join the Nigeria Police Force.

The Speaker and the Ministry of Police Affairs said it has become imperative to amend the Police Act so that more women could be recruited into the force.

They noted that having  more women in the force would fast-track the dispensation of justice.

Speaking at a public hearing on a Bill to amend the Police Act, 2020, and provide for 15 per cent recruitment of women into the police force, the Speaker said the proposed law mandates the Nigeria Police Force to establish and maintain a gender-responsive compliance programme that addresses key aspects of policing, such as recruitment, training, posting, discipline, and career progression.

Additionally, he said the Bill provides for the creation of a monitoring unit to keep accurate record of the integration process and ensure adherence to these provisions.

Speaking at a public hearing on a Bill to amend the Police Act, 2020, and provide for 15 per cent recruitment of women into the police force, the Speaker said the proposed law mandates the Nigeria Police Force to establish and maintain a gender-responsive compliance programme that addresses key aspects of policing, such as recruitment, training, posting, discipline, and career progression.

Additionally, he said the Bill provides for the creation of a monitoring unit to keep accurate record of the integration process and ensure adherence to these provisions.

He said: “For too long, the Nigeria Police Force has operated with a disproportionately low representation of women, particularly in its leadership structure.

“This has not only limited opportunities for many capable women but also deprived the institution of the unique perspective and empathy that female officers bring to law enforcement and community relations.

“By increasing the participation of women in the force, we are not merely advancing the cause of gender equality; we are enhancing professionalism, deepening accountability, and improving the overall quality of policing in Nigeria.