Johannesburg, South Africa – In a groundbreaking event that marks a new chapter for women in law enforcement, AIG Aishatu Abubakar Baju, OON, mni, has been elected unanimously as the inaugural President of the Association of Women in Law Enforcement in Africa (AWLEA). This remarkable achievement took place on November 12, 2025, during a historic gathering in Johannesburg, establishing AWLEA as the first organization dedicated to addressing the unique needs of women within the continent's law enforcement community.
AIG Baju’s election represents a vital step towards greater representation and empowerment of women in a traditionally male-dominated field. Her leadership is expected to drive significant changes, offering a platform for collaboration and support among women officers throughout Africa. This initiative comes at a crucial time when the importance of gender-inclusive policies in law enforcement has never been more pronounced.
In her acceptance speech, AIG Baju emphasized the need for solidarity and sisterhood among women in law enforcement, expressing her gratitude for the trust placed in her leadership. “I am deeply humbled and honored to stand before you today as your newly elected President,” she stated. Her words resonated with many attendees, reflecting a strong commitment to creating an environment where women can thrive and succeed together.
The vision for AWLEA, as articulated by AIG Baju, is both ambitious and inclusive. She emphasized the goal of establishing a robust network that empowers women, enhances mentorship opportunities, and fosters leadership development. “Our vision is clear: to create a platform where women in law enforcement can support, empower, and uplift each other,” she proclaimed, further noting the need to challenge prevailing stereotypes and overcome barriers within the profession.
AIG Baju's commitment also extends beyond internal association matters. She plans to collaborate with various stakeholders to advocate for policies that promote gender inclusivity and address community challenges. Her leadership is a beacon of hope for many aspiring female officers who seek not only to serve but to lead within their communities.
As she concludes her speech, AIG Baju invites all women in law enforcement to join her in a collective endeavor towards justice and equality. “Let us walk this path together, as sisters, as colleagues, and as champions of justice and equality,” she urged, leaving attendees inspired and optimistic about the future.
AIG Aishatu Abubakar Baju's election as the first President of AWLEA is not just a personal triumph; it is a progressive movement towards a more equitable law enforcement landscape in Africa. This pioneering step sets a shining example of leadership and empowerment, paving the way for future generations of women in law enforcement across the continent.
While congratulating AIG Aishatu, Co-Founders of the African Women Impact Summit Organisation and Global Initiative for the Advancement of Africa, Dr. Utchay Odims, PhD, and Dr. David James Egwu, MBA, PhD, eulogized her, insisting that her leadership capacity and her selfless commitment to gender inclusion and empowerment within the force in Nigeria and beyond have found her out on a global stage. They prayed for her to continue to excel as she shatters glass ceilings while empowering more women to dream big and see possibilities.
The establishment of AWLEA and AIG Baju's leadership signal a significant turning point and an opportunity for women to reclaim their narrative in law enforcement, fostering an environment where everyone can rise together.
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