Women’s Leadership as a Police Reform Imperative
Women’s Leadership as a Police Reform Imperative
July 16, 2026
This knowledge product on the imperativeness of women's leadership in police reform highlights the transformative role of women in advancing police reform in Nigeria. Drawing on evidence work done by UNDP Nigeria between 2021 and 2025, it demonstrates how women’s leadership strengthens accountability, professionalism, and community trust within police. From improving responses to gender-based violence to leading community policing efforts, women officers are shaping more inclusive and effective security systems. The Women Police Leadership Programme (WPLP) shows how targeted investment in leadership, mentorship, and institutional change delivers tangible results. This publication affirms that gender inclusion is not optional, it is central to building democratic, rights-based policing that serves all citizens.