As parts of activities marking 70 years of women’s excellent service delivery in the Force, the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) has honoured one of the pioneering women of the Nigeria Police Force.
The event, held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, aligned with the initiative of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, to recognise and celebrate trailblazers in policing.
At the ceremony, the National Chairman of the PCRC, Alhaji Ibrahim Mogaji Olaniyan led national and state executives in honouring DCP Dame Stella Obuoforibo Okuyiga, KBVM, JP (Rtd.), one of the first 20 women to join the Nigeria Police Force.
According to the Director, Global Communications and Media Relations, Olayemi Esan, on behalf of the National Chairman, PCRC National Secretariat, Abuja on Tuesday, she was presented with a prestigious Award Plaque and financial support in recognition of her decades of exemplary service and contributions to the Force.
In his remarks, the National Chairman of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), Alhaji Ibrahim Mogaji Olaniyan, described the celebration of 70 years of women’s service in the Nigeria Police Force as a historic milestone that highlights the courage, resilience, and exceptional contributions of female officers.
He noted that honouring one of the pioneering women of the Force was both a privilege and a duty, as their sacrifices laid the foundation for the progress seen in modern policing.
According to him, trailblazers like DCP Dame Stella Obuoforibo Okuyiga (Rtd.) broke barriers at a time when opportunities for women were limited, proving through discipline and dedication that women are indispensable partners in nation-building and security.
Presenting the award, Alhaji Olaniyan commended DCP Okuyiga for her years of exemplary service, integrity, and unwavering commitment to the ideals of the Nigeria Police Force.
He emphasized that the PCRC, under the guidance of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, remains committed to recognising individuals whose legacy continues to inspire the next generation of officers.
He urged serving female personnel to draw strength from the achievements of pioneers like DCP Okuyiga, reaffirming that the PCRC will continue to support initiatives that strengthen community policing, promote professionalism, and celebrate officers who distinguish themselves in service to the nation.
The PCRC leadership noted that the recognition underscores the organisation’s commitment to honouring officers—past and present—whose sacrifices have shaped policing in Nigeria.
The National Deputy Secretary of the PCRC, Amb. Mary Joseph, and the Rivers State Chairman, Amb. Voke Emore, were among the dignitaries present. The event also had in attendance retired senior female officers, including AIG Barr. Hilda Harrison (Rtd.) and DCP Chief Cecilia Olisa (Rtd.), who joined family members and well-wishers to celebrate the honouree.
DCP Okuyiga received the award surrounded by her daughter and close family, making the celebration both historic and deeply emotional.
The ceremony concluded with renewed calls to continue empowering women in law enforcement and celebrating their contributions to national security.