Aishatu Abubakar-Baju, Nigeria’s most senior female police officer, said the country will soon have a female Inspector General of Police (IGP).
Abubakar-Baju, who has been with the police force for 30 years, expressed her optimism during an interview on Channels Television.
When asked if she could be considered for the position, Abubakar-Baju stressed that the decision lies with the President, stating, “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.”
Abubakar-Baju also made highlight of the progress made in promoting gender equality within the police force.
She confirmed that unmarried female police officers who get pregnant will no longer be dismissed, citing the removal of discriminatory sections from the Police Act and Regulations.
The current IGP, Kayode Egbetokun, has also made efforts to address gender-based violence and promote inclusive policing.