Abuja: The National President of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), Mrs. Mutiat Disu, has called on women, especially the wives of police officers, to maintain resilience against life’s adversities by harnessing their strength, purpose, and grace. Disu conveyed this message during her address at the opening of the inaugural annual POWA Convention.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the three-day event, themed ‘The Resilient Woman: Navigating Life’s Challenges with Strength, Purpose and Grace’, was organized to honor women who quietly support their husbands in service to the nation despite the hardships associated with policing. Mrs. Disu emphasized the importance of recognizing the untold stories and sacrifices of these women, whose support is crucial for the effective functioning of police officers.
“This gathering acknowledges women whose stories are rarely told, whose sacrifices are often unseen, yet whose strength quietly sustains the Nigerian Police Force,” she stated. She highlighted the invisible yet vital role played by the wives of police officers, who manage family responsibilities while their spouses undertake demanding assignments.
The convention’s theme resonated with the realities faced by these women, who often shoulder emotional and family burdens with courage. The association aims to focus on investment, physical and mental health, and economic empowerment during the convention, equipping members with practical tools for personal and family development. This aligns with the achievements under the ‘POWA CARES’ initiative, which has provided support to struggling families in police barracks across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
More than 1,000 police families in Abuja have benefited from free medical consultations, eye screenings, and corrective eyeglasses, with similar initiatives in Lagos combining healthcare with scholarships and direct family support. Disu urged every woman at the convention to leave stronger and more hopeful, reinforcing the idea that when a police officer’s wife rises, the family and the police force do too, thereby contributing to a safer Nigeria.
The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, praised the POWA president for her dedication to police families and acknowledged the intelligence, emotional strength, and resilience required of police officers’ wives. He highlighted POWA’s evolution from a mere association of spouses to a platform for humanitarian service and community development, complementing the welfare initiatives of the Nigeria Police Force.
First Lady Sen. Oluremi Tinubu also commended Mrs. Disu for organizing a convention that fosters unity and support among wives of police officers. Represented by Mrs. Oghogho Musa, Tinubu highlighted the significant roles these women play in supporting their families and communities while carrying out numerous responsibilities at home.
The event featured a special presentation by pupils of the POWA International School, who expressed appreciation for the association’s commitment to the welfare of police families and children.