The National President of the Police Officers’ Wives Association, Dr Mrs Elizabeth Egbetokun, has pledged the body’s resolve to promote the welfare and foster unity among families of police officers.
Mrs Egbetokun stated this at the commissioning of the POWA office complex named after her in the old GRA axis of Port Harcourt, Rivers state on Friday.
She described the complex as a safe haven and the mark of a new beginning for the association.
Dr Egbetokun said, “This is not just a brick-and-mortar structure. It represents our unwavering commitment to support our loved ones in uniform and our collective resolve to uplift communities, promote welfare, and foster unity among families of police officers.
“As the National President of POWA, I am acutely aware of the challenges and responsibilities that our officers face daily.
“They put their lives on the line to protect us, to keep our community safe and to uphold the law. Our roles as their partners, and as their support system, adjust as vital.
“Today marks a pivotal moment in our journey, a step forward in strengthening our bond and enhancing our support mechanism. The establishment of this POWA Complex is not merely a celebratory event.”
Continuing she said, “ It is a hub for empowerment, education, and community engagement. It will be a safe haven where we, as wives, mothers, sisters, and daughters, can come together, share our experiences, and work collaboratively to address the unique challenges that we face.
“Among the many facets of our association, one of our core missions is to advocate for the welfare of police families. We strive to ensure that the families of our officers receive the necessary resources, support, and recognition for their sacrifices”.
Earlier in her welcome remarks, the chairperson of POWA in Rivers state and wife of the State Police Commissioner, Mrs Mutiat Disu, harped on the economic value of the complex.
Mrs Disu said the facility is more than just a building, saying, “It symbolizes our unity, resilience, and unwavering support for our police family.
“The complex itself has a mini business hub and a means to generate funds to support activities of our association. It will be a space where ideas can flourish and initiatives to aid our officers, their families, and their communities.
“I would like to send my appreciation to the state’s government for their invaluable assistance to the poor”.
The wife of the Rivers State Governor, Valerie Fubara, charged members of the association in the state to utilize the complex maximally.
Representing by the Rivers State Commissioner for Women Affairs, Roseline Uranta, acknowledges the contributions of the association to the Nigerian Police Force. lauded
She said, “To the Police Officers Wives Association, Her Excellency, the wife of the Governor of Rivers State, Lady Valerie Siminalayi Fubara has asked me to charge you to utilize this facility effectively, promoting women’s empowerment, education and economic development.
“May this complex foster a sense of community and support among these families. Let us continue to work together to foster a society where women and girls can reach their full potential”.
The high point of the event was the handover of starter packs for businesses such as refrigerators, hairdressers, and gas cookers amongst others to 41 beneficiaries including windows of deceased police officers.
