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POWA Convention 2025 Sets New Standard For Women’s Empowerment Under Dr. Elizabeth Egbetokun’s Transformational Leadership

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The Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) Convention 2025 will forever be remembered as a watershed moment in the annals of women’s empowerment in Nigeria. This extraordinary three-day event, masterfully orchestrated under the visionary leadership of Dr. Elizabeth Egbetokun, transcended the boundaries of a typical convention to become a powerful movement that celebrated the indomitable spirit of Nigerian women.

From the opulent ballrooms of Eko Hotel and Suites, where ideas were born and strategies forged, to the pulsating energy of Onikan Stadium, where physical prowess met determination, and finally to the glittering grand finale at Federal Palace Hotel, the convention unfolded as a magnificent tapestry of empowerment, talent discovery, and unshakable sisterhood. Each venue, carefully selected, provided the perfect backdrop for the different dimensions of this transformative gathering.

Dr. Egbetokun, serving as both National President of POWA and wife of the Inspector General of Police, demonstrated why she is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most dynamic female leaders. Her ability to seamlessly blend practical empowerment with inspirational leadership created an atmosphere where every participant – from the newest member to the most seasoned officer’s wife – felt valued, heard, and most importantly, empowered to reach new heights.

The wife of the Inspector-General of Police and National President, POWA, Mrs. Elizabeth Egbetokun chats with Lagos Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Moshood Jimoh
CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, PPRO, Lagos Police Command

The convention’s impact was immediately evident in the electric atmosphere that permeated each venue. At Eko Hotel, the air buzzed with intellectual energy as women engaged in thought-provoking discussions about their role in national development. Onikan Stadium transformed into an arena of triumph where physical strength and teamwork took center stage. Finally, Federal Palace Hotel became a glittering showcase of Nigeria’s finest female talents, proving that the nation’s creative future is in capable hands.

What made this convention truly historic was its holistic approach to empowerment. Dr. Egbetokun’s vision extended beyond traditional parameters to create an experience that nourished mind, body, and soul. The carefully curated program addressed professional development through skills acquisition, physical wellbeing through sports, and creative expression through talent showcases – a trinity of empowerment that will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy in the lives of all participants.

Commissioner of Police, CP Olohundare Moshood Jimoh, flanked by journalists at the POWA Empowerment Programme at Onikan Stadium

As the sun set on the final day at Federal Palace Hotel, one truth became undeniable: Dr. Elizabeth Egbetokun had not just organized a successful convention – she had ignited a movement. The ripples from this gathering will continue to spread across Nigeria, inspiring police officers’ wives and indeed all Nigerian women to embrace their power, hone their talents, and support one another in the collective journey toward a brighter future.

National President, POWA, Mrs. Elizabeth Egbetokun hugs Seargeant Uche Nwokolo who won the special POWA prize

This was more than an event – it was the dawn of a new era for POWA, one where transformational leadership meets actionable empowerment, where potential is recognized and nurtured, and where the sisterhood of police officers’ wives stands united as a formidable force for positive change in Nigeria. The 2025 convention has set a new gold standard, and the nation eagerly anticipates what Dr. Egbetokun and POWA will achieve next.

Day 1: Laying the Foundation for Transformation at Eko Hotel and Suites

The 2025 POWA Convention commenced in grand style at the prestigious Eko Hotel and Suites, where the atmosphere crackled with anticipation and purpose. The elegant halls, adorned in POWA’s signature colors, welcomed a distinguished gathering of first ladies from various states, top government officials, security chiefs’ wives, and hundreds of police officers’ wives representing all 36 states of the federation.

Dr. Elizabeth Egbetokun, resplendent in traditional attire, took the stage to deliver a keynote address that would set the trajectory for the entire convention. Her words resonated with clarity and conviction as she articulated POWA’s renewed vision:

“We are not just wives behind the uniforms – we are nation-builders, change-makers, and the backbone of community transformation. When we stand united in purpose, there is no limit to what we can achieve for our families and our nation.”

The day’s agenda featured high-level panel discussions on:

“Financial Independence for Law Enforcement Families”

“Mental Health and Resilience in Police Communities”

“Advancing Women’s Leadership in Security Sector Reforms”

Interactive workshops equipped participants with practical skills in digital literacy, conflict resolution, and community policing strategies. The networking sessions buzzed with energy as women from different states exchanged ideas and best practices, many forming connections that would blossom into lasting collaborations.

Day 2: A Symphony of Strength and Empowerment at Onikan Stadium

As dawn broke over Lagos, the convention transformed into a celebration of physical vitality and economic empowerment at the historic Onikan Stadium. The morning sun witnessed an unprecedented display of athleticism as police wives competed in track events, aerobics competitions, and team sports.

Dr. Egbetokun, herself a fitness enthusiast, participated in the ceremonial walkathon before presenting awards to outstanding athletes. Her message was clear:

“A healthy police wife means a healthy police family. When we care for our bodies, we strengthen our capacity to serve our communities.”

The stadium’s energy reached its zenith during the POWA Empowerment Initiative – a life-changing moment where 150 women (selected through a rigorous nationwide screening process) received:

State-of-the-art sewing machines with complete accessory kits

Industrial-grade grinding machines capable of processing all Nigerian staples

Commercial deep freezers for food preservation businesses

Professional hairstyling equipment with starter product packages

Popcorn and snack-making machines for school zone enterprises

Mrs. Veronica Moris, Adamawa State POWA Chairperson

Veronica Moris, the visibly moved Adamawa State POWA Chairperson, shared:

“What Dr. Egbetokun has done today goes beyond charity – this is sustainable transformation. These tools represent hope for families, education for children, and dignity for women who never dreamed such opportunities were possible. In my state alone, her initiatives have lifted 87 widows out of poverty just this year.”

Chairperson of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), Lagos Chapter, Mrs Oluwatoyin Risqat Jimoh addressing pressmen during the empowerment programme

The day culminated in an emotional ceremony where beneficiaries from conflict-affected regions shared testimonies of how POWA’s interventions had rebuilt their lives after tragedy. As the sun set over Lagos, it was clear that this was more than an empowerment program – it was the birth of 150 new entrepreneurs who would go on to create jobs and inspire others in their communities.

The meticulous planning behind Day 2 reflected Dr. Egbetokun’s holistic approach to empowerment – recognizing that true transformation requires both physical vitality and economic independence. By combining sports with substantive livelihood support, POWA created a model for women’s development programs nationwide.

An emotional widowed beneficiary showering prayers on Dr. Egbetokun and POWA for giving her a new lease on life through the empowerment programme

This extraordinary day at Onikan Stadium didn’t just change lives – it created a blueprint for sustainable women’s economic empowerment that would be studied and replicated across Africa. Through Dr. Egbetokun’s visionary leadership, POWA had once again proven that when women are properly equipped, they become unstoppable forces for national development.

DAY 3: Where Police Wives Stole the Spotlight in a Night of Glamour & Genius

The Federal Palace Hotel transformed into Nigeria’s most unexpected stage of stardom on the final day as the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) unveiled its secret weapon—raw, unfiltered talent—during the breathtaking climax of its 2025 convention. What began as an empowerment initiative blossomed into a cultural phenomenon, proving that behind every uniform stands extraordinary artistry waiting to be unleashed.

Crystal chandeliers shimmered over 500 guests as POWA National President Dr. Elizabeth Egbetokun set the tone with her battle cry: “Your talent is your power. Show it unapologetically.” And show it they did—from Zone 13’s orator who turned police community relations into spoken word art, to Zone 7’s dance troupe that fused traditional Igbo steps with contemporary Afrobeats in a viral-worthy performance.

Lagos State’s representation spoke volumes about the night’s significance. SSG Barr. Mrs. Salu Hundeyin, channeling Governor Sanwo-Olu’s vision, declared: “Tonight, we’re not just celebrating talent—we’re witnessing the birth of a movement where police families lead Nigeria’s creative renaissance.”

The star-studded panel—including media maven Mrs. Grace Amodu and cultural ambassador Mrs. Angela Olaiya—found themselves emotionally ambushed by performances that blurred the line between competition and concert. Highlights included:

  • A haunting Yoruba poetry rendition about officers’ sacrifices that left Nollywood icon RMD wiping tears
  • An avant-garde hairstyle showcase from Zone 2 that turned braids into architectural wonders
  • The runway revolution where Zone 5’s models strutted in police-inspired couture

The night sparkled with recognition:

– Best Hairstyle (Zone 2) 

– Best Speech (Champion Orator)  (Zone 13) 

– Best Runway Model (Zone 5) 

– Best Dancer (Zone 7)

– Best Dressed (Zone 8) 

Sergeant Uche Nwokolo

The People’s Hero Steals the Show

Just when the applause seemed to peak, POWA orchestrated its masterstroke—the surprise honoring of Sergeant Uche Nwokolo, the viral Warri-based officer celebrated by market women for her compassionate service. As Dr. Egbetokun enveloped her in an embrace with an undisclosed cash award, RMD stormed in with a showman’s flourish, pledging to “add to whatever madam chairman gave” in a moment that brought the house down.

National President, POWA, Mrs. Elizabeth Egbetokun and her executives show of stunning dancing prowess at the POWA Gala Night, Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos.

With winners departing with everything from deluxe mobile closets to career-changing cash prizes, the real victory was the paradigm shift—proof that Nigeria’s police families harbor talents as diverse as the nation they protect. As the last camera flashes faded, one truth remained: POWA 2025 didn’t just host a talent show; it staged a revolution where the real stars wear silver name tags at home.

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