Initiative for Mental Health and Peace Sustenance Honors POWA National President for Advocacy on Female Officers’ Mental Health

By Iyojo Ameh

In a bid to recognize the pivotal role of mental health in fostering efficient service delivery among female police officers, the National President of the Police Officers Wives Association (POWA), Mrs.

Elizabeth Egbetokun, received an accolade from the Initiative for Mental Health and Peace Sustenance. The award, presented in Abuja on Thursday, commended Mrs. Egbetokun’s visionary leadership in championing mental health awareness within the police force.

During the ceremony, Mrs. Egbetokun emphasized the significance of mental well-being for female officers in ensuring effective service delivery.

She underscored POWA’s commitment to sensitizing female officers, particularly widows and the less privileged, about the importance of prioritizing their mental health. “We strive to support women, especially those facing challenges. We engage experts to guide them and empower them,” she stated.

Highlighting the plight of widows left behind by deceased officers, Mrs. Egbetokun highlighted the societal neglect they often endure. POWA, she said, endeavors to bridge this gap by reaching out to these women, offering encouragement, and supporting both the widows and their children, many of whom face barriers to education.

Expressing her gratitude for the honor, Mrs. Egbetokun attributed the recognition to the impactful work undertaken by POWA. She affirmed, “This award holds great significance for me. It’s a testament to the efforts we’ve put in as POWA to make a positive difference.”

POWA, a non-profit and Non-Governmental Organisation, is dedicated to enhancing the lives of its members and police families across Nigeria.

Earlier in the event, Amb. Dr. Samantha Simeon, President/Founder of the Initiative for Mental Health and Peace Sustenance, stressed the fundamental right to safety for all individuals. She drew attention to the relationship between mental health deterioration and the nation’s longstanding security challenges, identifying poverty as a significant contributing factor.

Furthermore, Amb. Simeon emphasized the vital role of police officers’ wives in not only supporting their families but also contributing to society at large. She urged the Nigerian Government to ensure equal economic rights and access to basic services, particularly for vulnerable women, highlighting the government’s responsibility in fostering justice and domestic tranquility.

Amb. Simeon reiterated that the Initiative was committed to promoting mental wellness, combating the stigma surrounding mental illness, and advocating for accessible, quality mental health care for all individuals.

The Initiative for Mental Health and Peace Sustenance continues its mission as a non-profit mental health organization dedicated to bolstering mental wellness and offering support to those grappling with mental health challenges.