The President of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) and wife of the Nigeria Police Force Inspector-General, Mrs. Mutiat Olufunmilola Disu, has called for stronger global alliances to promote women’s leadership, influence, and active participation in building inclusive and sustainable societies.
Mrs. Disu made the call while delivering the opening remarks at the Handshake Summit & Awards, held on the sidelines of the Commission on the Status of Women 70 in New York City, United States.
The summit, themed “Advancing Women’s Influence in a Changing World,” took place at the Church Center for the United Nations and brought together global leaders, policymakers, development partners, and advocates committed to strengthening women’s roles in leadership, governance, peacebuilding, and socio-economic development.
Speaking on the topic “From Intention to Alliance: Architecture of the Global Handshake,” Mrs. Disu stressed the importance of intentional partnerships and collaborative leadership structures that empower women to contribute meaningfully to global decision-making processes
She noted that in a rapidly evolving global environment shaped by technological advancement, security concerns, and socio-economic changes, women must not only participate but also serve as architects of inclusive solutions.
Mrs. Disu also highlighted the ongoing efforts of the Police Officers’ Wives Association in Nigeria, noting that the association continues to champion initiatives aimed at empowering women, strengthening family welfare, and promoting community development, particularly within law enforcement communities.
The POWA President attended the summit alongside members of the association’s executive team, including Mrs. Taibat Adenola and Mrs. Bolajoko Funsho Adegboye.
Members of the Nigeria Police Force delegation to CSW70 were also present, including AIG Aishatu Abubakar Baju, ACP Olabisi Okuwobi, and ACP Dolapo Badmos, who serves as the Force Permanent Mission’s Representative to the United Nations Headquarters in New York.
The Federal Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development was represented by Ms. Abe Jawando on behalf of the Honourable Minister, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, while the Federal Ministry of Defence was represented by Major Nneka Olimma-Adinweruka, Gender Officer in the Office of the Honourable Minister of Defence.
The summit also attracted Nigerians in the diaspora working across diverse sectors including security, information technology, and public service, alongside delegates and stakeholders from several countries.
The engagement underscored Nigeria’s continued commitment to advancing gender equality, strengthening women’s leadership, and fostering global partnerships aimed at building inclusive and resilient societies. Participants at the Commission on the Status of Women 70 reaffirmed the importance of collaboration among governments, civil society, and international partners to accelerate progress for women and girls worldwide.