Police approve new dress code for female officers; use of hijab, earrings now allowed

The Inspector-General of Police, Mr Usman Baba has approved a new dress code allowing hijab, earrings and headscarf for female officers in the Nigeria Police Force (NPF).

The dress code was unveiled at the IG’s meeting with Assistant Inspectors-General of Police (AIGs) and Commissioners of Police from the 36 States and FCT.

According to Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the force spokesperson, the new dress code was approved to guarantee gender inclusion in the police for “optimum output and professionalism”.

In a statement on Friday, Olumuyiwa Adejobi said: “The IGP noted that the Nigeria police workforce has officers from every local government in the country with a variety of ethnic and religious backgrounds, and an increased inclusion of female folks.

“This, therefore, brings the need to guarantee inclusion, gender mainstreaming, ethnic and religious diversity in the workplace for optimum output and professionalism. This has informed the improvement for effective global workforce diversity management. Other countries that have adopted the same dress code include Canada, the United States of America, Sweden, Turkey, Australia and the United Kingdom amongst others.

“The dress code is optional and senior women police officers have been tasked by the IGP to ensure compliance with the approved standard for women police officers who have opted to adopt the dress code.

“The Inspector-General of Police noted that this development, which is in line with international best practices, addresses the growing concern for gender mainstreaming and respect for culture and diversity.”