– The Zinnia Lantana Hall at Eko Hotels and Suites radiated with elegance and purpose as the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) held its 2025 Convention for the first time in Lagos. Under the theme “Unlocking POWA Potentials and Transformational Leaders,” the event brought together wives of serving and fallen police officers, government dignitaries, and thought leaders to champion empowerment, resilience, and societal impact.
A Gathering of Glamour and Inspiration, representlng His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Mrs.
Abimbola Saliu-Hundeyin, hailed Lagos as “the Centre of Excellence and Africa’s Pride.” She praised POWA’s transformative programs, which have brought “love, joy, and peace” to countless families, particularly widows of fallen officers.“POWA’s journey since 1964 has been one of resilience,” she noted.
“Today, we celebrate an organization that has turned grief into strength, loss into legacy.”Dr. Mrs. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, Lagos’ First Lady, stressed the sentiment, applauding POWA’s “people-oriented programs” and urging members to “free their minds from stress” to fully absorb the convention’s insights.Leadership That Transforms LivesDr.
Mrs. Elizabeth Egbetokun, POWA National President, outlined the association’s three-point agenda:1. Education for Development– Scholarships and skill acquisition for officers’ children2. Quality Healthcare Delivery – Medical outreach for police families3. Better Life for All – Economic empowerment initiatives“Transformational leadership is about inspiring change,” she declared. “We must identify strengths, foster innovation, and mentor the next generation.”Voices from the Frontlines–
Dr. Mrs. Bessie Dantawaye (Kogi POWA Chairperson) hailed Egbetokun as “a visionary leader” and emphasized that “the police are society’s friends—without them, chaos reigns.”– Mrs. Helen Ada Agbonika (Edo POWA Coordinator) pledged to replicate lessons from the convention in her state.– Mrs. Abimbola Akinwunmi (Marriage Counselor) advised women to “balance career growth with marital harmony.”– Prince Abdulsalami Ladigbolu Oranmiyan spotlighted POWA’s agricultural scheme, which has disbursed ₦400,000 grants to 3 million beneficiaries.
A Legacy of Strength and SolidarityThough IGP Kayode Egbetokun was absent due to national duties, his representative, AIG Kayode Fayoade, honored POWA’s legacy—spearheaded in 1984 by Mrs. Mary Edet Iyang, who revived the association into today’s vibrant force.As the convention continues until August 1, 2025, one message rings clear: POWA is not just an association; it’s a movement—unlocking potential, transforming lives, and redefining leadership.Follow the Conversation:#POWAUnlocksPotential #PoliceWivesLead #LagosForPOWA