By Abimbola Ogunnaike
Assistant Inspector General of Police, Yetunde Longe, has made history by becoming the first female Force Secretary.
Longe was appointed into that position by the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun,
The Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, confirmed the appointment of Longe through a statement issued on Wednesday, 5 June, 2024.
Adejobi said the appointment was in furtherance of the vision to ensure gender inclusivity and equality in all aspects of appointments and operations within the Nigeria Police Force.
According to the force image-maker, Longe brings a wealth of experience and expertise to her new role and has demonstrated exceptional dedication and competence within the Nigeria Police Force.
“She holds a Bachelors Degree in Forensic Toxicology, which has significantly contributed to her proficiency in crime management and investigation. Her professional development is further enriched by her participation in advanced courses such as the Advanced Detective Course and Intermediate Command Course at Police Staff College Jos, and the Protection of Civilians course in Italy,” Adejobi said.
He added that the new Force Secretary has held several key positions since her appointment as a Cadet ASP on March 3, 1990, such as the Deputy Commissioner of Police at the State Criminal Investigation Department in Lagos and Bauchi States.
The Force PRO noted that prior to her new appointment, Longe was the Commissioner of Police for the Port Authority Police, Eastern Command, Port Harcourt; and later Assistant Inspector General of Police in the Department of Training and Development, Force Headquarters, Abuja.
“Throughout her illustrious career, AIG Longe has held several key positions, including Administrative Officer, Crime Officer, Commandant in Lagos, Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Corporate Investment at the NPF.
“Area Commander in Lagos, Deputy Commissioner of Police at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID) in both Bauchi and Lagos States, and DCP Admin at Zone 2, Lagos. Prior to her new appointment, she was Commissioner of Police for the Port Authority Police, Eastern Command, Port Harcourt, and later Assistant Inspector General of Police in the Department of Training and Development, Force Headquarters, Abuja,” the force spokesperson said
Adejobi explained that Egbetokun emphasized that the inclusion of women in strategic roles is crucial for the comprehensive development and effectiveness of the Force.
“The Inspector General of Police reiterates that gender sensitivity in police appointments and operations remains a non-negotiable principle as his administration is poised to promote gender equality and empower female officers to attain leadership positions within the Force.
“The IGP emphasises that the inclusion of women in strategic roles is crucial for the comprehensive development and effectiveness of the Police Force while assuring that the Force will continue to foster an inclusive environment where merit and capability are the primary criteria for advancement, irrespective of gender,” Adejobi added.
