The Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja, has emphasized the Nigerian Army’s commitment to promoting gender inclusiveness in all its activities.
Speaking in Abuja at the opening of a one-week Leadership and Mentoring Course for Senior Female Officers in the Nigerian Security Sector, Lagbaja stressed the importance of including women in peace and security efforts.
Represented by Maj.-Gen. Olusegun Abai, Deputy Chief of Training (Army), Lagbaja said, “The Nigerian Army is an institution committed to principles of equality, professionalism, and service to the nation.” He highlighted that gender inclusivity is not just a moral obligation but a necessity for strengthening the army’s capacity to tackle challenges.
The event, organized by the National Defence College in collaboration with UN Women and the German Government, focused on empowering women in leadership roles within security institutions.
According to Lagbaja, the course will help women play key roles in security and national development, adding that “true strength lies in diversity.”
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, represented by AIG Aishatu Abubakar, also noted the importance of mentorship for women officers. “We need to intentionally mentor our young women so they can move into leadership positions and sit at decision-making tables,” Egbetokun said.
The Commandant General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Dr. Ahmed Audi, also supported the initiative, stating that employing women in leadership would help balance security institutions and address modern challenges.
The Commandant of the National Defence College, Rear Adm. Olumuyiwa Olotu, called for efforts to remove barriers to women’s leadership in the security sector. He noted that this course was a vital step towards building a future where women can contribute fully to national security.
The UN Women Country Representative, Beatrice Eyong, praised the initiative, stating that it helps close the gender gap in Nigeria’s security institutions.
Eyong said, “We are beginning to see women taking leadership positions and gender responsiveness in their operations.”
