POWA strengthens community policing through women’s empowerment initiative

Emeka Okafor, Awka

The ongoing skills acquisition programme organised by the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), Anambra State Chapter, has continued to record remarkable progress as participants benefit from intensive training sessions at the Anambra POWA Skills Acquisition Centre in Ukpo, Dunukofia Local Government Area.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, Anambra State Police Command, SP Tochukwu Ikenga, the empowerment initiative, designed for members of POWA and selected Ndi Anambra women, is focused on equipping participants with practical knowledge and entrepreneurial skills aimed at enhancing self-reliance, family stability, and community development.

From Day One through Day Four, the programme has featured a broad range of structured activities, including hands-on practical lessons, experience-sharing sessions, interactive discussions, and capacity-building workshops.

Participants have reported significant improvements in their skill sets, renewed bonding among members, strengthened friendships, and exposure to innovative ideas capable of driving both personal growth and grassroots economic development.

A major highlight of the programme was the visit of the Pioneer Force Medical Director, Nkechi Eze, Assistant Inspector-General of Police, alongside the Commissioner of Police, Anambra State Command, and other distinguished resource persons.

The visiting dignitaries engaged participants in motivational discussions, encouraged them to maximise the opportunity, and reaffirmed institutional support for women-focused empowerment programmes.

Speaking during the sessions, the Acting Chairperson of Anambra POWA, Dr. (Mrs.) Eno Chongs Mantu reiterated the association’s commitment to strengthening the crucial link between officers’ well-being and strong family support systems.

She emphasised that empowering officers’ spouses and women in the wider community remains a strategic pillar in promoting effective community policing and reinforcing the state’s overall security architecture.

According to her, when families of police officers are economically empowered and socially supported, it enhances morale within the Force and contributes positively to service delivery.

The initiative further underscores the dedication of the Anambra State Police Command to sustainable capacity building, family-oriented welfare programmes, and community-driven development.

As the training continues, stakeholders have expressed optimism that the skills acquired will translate into viable small-scale enterprises, improved livelihoods, and strengthened collaboration between the police and host communities across Anambra State.