By Odita Sunday
The leadership of the Nigeria Police Force has received fresh recognition for its growing emphasis on inclusive and gender-responsive policing, with Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Force Criminal Investigation Department (FCID), DIG Margaret Ochalla, honoured with the 2026 Gender Sensitivity Award.
Ochalla was recognised under the Individual Award Category of the 2026 Peace and Dialogue Awards organised by the UFUK Dialogue Foundation Nigeria in collaboration with the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR).
The award recognises her commitment to promoting gender sensitivity, inclusiveness and peaceful coexistence, while highlighting her leadership within the Nigeria Police Force.
In a statement issued on Friday, 11th September 2026, the Police Public Relations Officer, Force Criminal Investigation Department, Abuja, SP Funmilayo Eguaoje, said the recognition was a reflection of Ochalla’s contribution to gender-responsive policing and professional leadership.
The FCID described the award as more than a personal achievement for Ochalla, saying it also reflects the Police Force’s broader commitment to fairness, equal opportunity and the protection of the rights and dignity of citizens.
The Department particularly highlighted Ochalla’s position as the only female member of the Nigeria Police Force Management Team, describing it as a reflection of her hard work, honesty, integrity and professionalism.
Beyond the honour itself, the recognition places attention on the importance of having women represented at senior levels of policing, particularly in shaping approaches to justice, public safety and the treatment of citizens.
The FCID commended the UFUK Dialogue Foundation Nigeria and the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution for recognising the contributions of the Nigeria Police Force, particularly the leadership of DIG Margaret Ochalla, to gender-sensitive policing and peacebuilding.
It reaffirmed its commitment to initiatives that promote justice, professionalism, inclusiveness, public confidence and sustainable peace across Nigeria.
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