In a significant move towards gender equality, the Federal Government has announced a 35 percent recruitment quota for women in all paramilitary services under the Ministry of Interior. This initiative aims to enhance gender mainstreaming and promote women’s participation in security and civil service roles.
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, revealed this development during a special media briefing in Abuja, commemorating his first anniversary in office. The recruitment slots will apply to key paramilitary agencies, including the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Nigeria Immigration Service (NIS), Federal Fire Service (FFS), and the Nigeria Correctional Service (NCoS).
Dr. Tunji-Ojo emphasized, “We want to give our women 35 percent recruitment quota across all our services. Career development management of these paramilitary agencies is part of our focus.” This commitment reflects the government’s dedication to fostering an inclusive environment within the security sector.
Additionally, the Minister announced the completion of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF). This partnership aims to support the rehabilitation of inmates in Nigeria’s custodial centers through football. Dr. Tunji-Ojo explained that the initiative leverages the transformative power of sports to instill discipline, teamwork, and personal growth among inmates.
“This innovative approach will provide inmates with a constructive outlet for their energy, thereby reducing recidivism,” he stated. The collaboration underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring that correctional facilities serve as avenues for personal transformation and rehabilitation, offering a second chance to those willing to change their lives.