From Fred Itua, Abuja
Elizabeth Egbetokun, the National President of the Police Officers Wives Association (POWA) and wife of the Inspector-General of Police, has emphasised the pivotal role of mental health in enhancing the effectiveness of female police officers in their service delivery.
She made the remarks during an award presentation by the Initiative for Mental Health and Peace Sustenance in Abuja. The award acknowledged her visionary leadership within POWA.
The focus of POWA, according to Egbetokun, includes sensitising female officers, particularly widows and the underprivileged, about the importance of prioritising their mental well-being.
“We strive to support women by raising awareness about various issues. For those facing challenges, we engage experts to provide guidance and ensure their well-being through empowerment initiatives,” she affirmed.
Egbetokun highlighted the societal neglect experienced by many widows following their husbands’ demise, underscoring POWA’s commitment to reaching out, offering encouragement, and supporting both widows and their children, many of whom face disruptions in their education.
Expressing her gratitude for the recognition, Egbetokun acknowledged the significance of the award, attributing it to POWA’s impactful initiatives aimed at improving the lives of its members and police families nationwide.
Dr. Samantha Simeon, President/Founder of the Initiative for Mental Health and Peace Sustenance, stressed the fundamental right of every individual to live in a secure environment. She underscored the correlation between mental health deterioration and factors such as poverty, emphasising its role in Nigeria’s security challenges.
Addressing the broader societal impact, Simeon urged the Nigerian government to ensure equal economic opportunities and access to essential services for vulnerable women, advocating for justice and domestic tranquility.
The Initiative for Mental Health and Peace Sustenance, a non-profit organisation, aims to enhance mental wellness and provide support to individuals grappling with mental health issues.
Dr. Simeon reiterated the organisation’s commitment to eradicating the stigma associated with mental illness and ensuring universal access to quality mental health care.
The collective efforts of POWA and the Initiative for Mental Health and Peace Sustenance underscore a growing awareness of the significance of mental health in fostering the well-being of female police officers and the broader society.