The Police Officers Wives Association, POWA, Ekiti State Chapter has empowered widows of late police officers and other members with startup kits, cash gifts, and food items to help them cope with the current economic hardship.
The empowerment program, held in Ado-Ekiti, was aimed at supporting the families of both serving and deceased officers and ensuring they remain self-reliant where some of them went home with sewing machines, gas cylinders, burners, cash gifts among others.
Presenting the materials, the Chairperson of POWA Ekiti State Chapter and wife of the Ekiti State Commissioner of Police, Mrs. Hellen Falade said the gesture was necessary to assist beneficiaries in meeting the needs of their families.
Mrs. Falade noted that the Commissioner of Police is fully in support of the initiative and is committed to the welfare of officers and their families, especially those who lost loved ones in active service.
She added that the startup kits were carefully selected to enable the widows to start small businesses and generate income, while the food items were to cushion the effect of the present economic challenge.
In his remarks, the Ekiti State Commissioner of Police, CP Micheal Falade charged the beneficiaries to make good use of the opportunity.
He said the Nigeria Police Force under the leadership of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Tunji Disu remains committed to prioritizing the welfare of police officers and their families.
“As Commissioner of Police, Ekiti State Command, I remain committed to prioritising the welfare of officers and their families because a motivated police officer is more dedicated, productive and effective in the discharge of his or her constitutional responsibilities”
“On this note, I once again congratulate the Chairperson and members of POWA, Ekiti State Chapter, for this laudable initiative. I encourage everyone to continue to uphold the values of compassion, unity and mutual support which have remained the hallmark of this great Association”
“Together, let us continue to build a Police family that cares for one another while remaining steadfast in our commitment to protecting the lives and property of all residents of Ekiti State”
CP Falade listed some achievements of the command since he assumed office to include the arrest of several criminals and the recovery of stolen vehicles and motorcycles.
He noted that the proactiveness of officers in the state has contributed to the peaceful atmosphere currently enjoyed by residents.
In interviews, some beneficiaries expressed appreciation to POWA and the Ekiti State Police Command, saying the support came at a critical time.
The event had in attendance senior police officers and wives of officers, and featured cultural dances to entertain guests.
