The Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), Abuja Headquarters, has celebrated the recognition of its leader, Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) Margaret Ochalla, who has been honoured with the prestigious 2026 Gender Sensitivity Award by the UFUK Dialogue Foundation Nigeria.
The award, presented under the Individual Award Category of the 2026 Peace and Dialogue Awards, was organised by the UFUK Dialogue Foundation Nigeria in collaboration with the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), in recognition of DIG Ochalla’s outstanding commitment to gender sensitivity, inclusiveness, professionalism and peaceful coexistence in Nigeria.
The FCID Headquarters described the honour as a significant milestone not only for DIG Ochalla but also for the Nigeria Police Force, particularly in advancing gender-responsive policing and inclusive professional leadership.
In a statement signed and released to the National Association of Online Security News Publishers (NAOSNP) by the FCID Headquarters Public Relations Officer, SP Funmilayo Eguaoje, the department said the recognition reflects DIG Ochalla’s dedication to fairness, integrity, equal opportunity and the protection of the rights and dignity of citizens.
According to the statement, the award is a well-deserved recognition of DIG Ochalla’s exemplary leadership and commitment to creating an inclusive environment where professionalism, fairness and equal opportunity remain fundamental values.
The FCID further noted that DIG Ochalla’s position as the only female member of the Nigeria Police Force Management Team was a testament to her hard work, honesty, integrity, professionalism and dedication to duty.
The department stated: “The Force Criminal Investigation Department views the recognition of DIG Margaret Ochalla as not only a personal achievement but also a testament to the growing commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to gender-responsive policing, professional leadership, inclusiveness and the protection of the rights and dignity of all citizens.”
The FCID commended the UFUK Dialogue Foundation Nigeria and the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution for recognising the contributions of the Nigeria Police Force, particularly the leadership of DIG Ochalla, towards the advancement of gender-sensitive policing and peacebuilding in Nigeria.
The department reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote justice, professionalism, inclusiveness, public confidence and sustainable peace across the country.
The recognition further underscores the growing importance of gender-sensitive leadership within Nigeria’s security architecture and the need for an inclusive policing system that gives every citizen equal protection and opportunity.