POWA expands welfare support for police families in Lagos
.Medical outreach for 1,000, scholarship for 15 nursing students, financial, other succour Over 1,000 police families and indigent residents have benefited from a welfare intervention programme organised by the Police
.Medical outreach for 1,000, scholarship for 15 nursing students, financial, other succour
Over 1,000 police families and indigent residents have benefited from a welfare intervention programme organised by the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) in Lagos.
The two-day event, held at POWA Hall, Ikeja GRA, featured free medical checks, treatment and referrals for participants.
About 200 people won N50,000 cash gifts each, Lagos State Cowry transport cards loaded with N10,000, while 15 nursing students will get scholarships, as well as opportunities for five families to dine with either the state governor or the Inspector-General of Police, depending on what the picked in the draw.
POWA President, Mrs Olufunmilola Disu, said the initiative was driven by concern for police families, noting that some officers lose their lives due to poor health awareness and limited access to care.
She said beneficiaries received eye screening and treatment, corrective eyewear, dental services and general medical consultations.
According to her, the programme was a build-up on the success of the first phase held in Abuja, where over 1,000 beneficiaries received eye care and other medical support.
Mrs Disu added that the initiative would also promote youth development through sensitisation on drug abuse, cultism, and sexual and reproductive health.
She said the programme would be extended nationwide as part of a shift from isolated welfare activities to a structured social protection framework supported by partnerships with the Nigeria Police Force, government institutions, healthcare providers, social development organisations and corporate bodies.
The POWA president acknowledged the support of Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, First Lady Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, and the Special Assistant on Transportation and Logistics, Hassan Adekoya, for facilitating the Lagos phase.
Representing the Inspector-General of Police, the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Fatai Tijani, described the initiative as a demonstration of the Force’s commitment to the welfare of officers and their families.
He said officers perform better when their families are supported and commended POWA for sustaining the intervention nationwide. He also praised the Lagos State Government for its continued support for police families and urged stakeholders to remain committed to strengthening the welfare of personnel and their dependants.
One of the beneficiaries, Mrs Esther Sunday, said she was referred for further treatment after being diagnosed with cataract.
“I did not know what to do or how to raise money for treatment, but I have now been referred to a specialist hospital,” she said.
She added that she received N50,000 and a Cowry card loaded with N10,000.
“This will support my business and help reduce pressure on my husband in caring for the family,” she said.
