Chief Barrister Mrs. Virginia Ntiejum Okolo (CP, rtd.), Nigeria’s first female police lawyer, has reflected on her pioneering journey in the Nigeria Police Force, recalling her cherished handshake with Chief Obafemi Awolowo, then Premier of Western Nigeria, as one of the most memorable moments of her career.

Okolo joined the Nigeria Police Force in 1958, barely in her teens, after her application was approved following screening in Port Harcourt. She underwent training at the Nigeria Police College, Ikeja, where she distinguished herself and graduated in 1959 as the Best All-Round Recruit, earning Force Number 00793CC.

At the passing-out parade on May 1, 1959, Okolo received a medal and a handshake from Chief Awolowo—an honour she says she still treasures decades later. At the time, she did not fully grasp the historical significance of the moment, but it later became a symbol of her trailblazing role in Nigerian policing.

Reflecting on her early years, Okolo described life at the Police College as demanding but formative. Known among her peers as the “Dormitory Guard” because of her discipline and obedience, she stood out for her dedication and quiet resilience. Despite challenges, including bullying during training, she remained focused and committed to excellence.

Over a 35-year career, Okolo rose through the ranks from social welfare duties—then common for female officers—to general policing, heading divisional, area and zonal commands. She later served in the Special Branch, where she handled sensitive national intelligence responsibilities.

Driven by her passion for education, Okolo enrolled to study law at the University of Nigeria, Enugu Campus, in 1976 while still in service. She was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1982, becoming the first female lawyer in the Nigeria Police Force. She later rose to become Officer-in-Charge of the Legal Department, retiring as a Commissioner of Police in charge of the Legal Department at Alagbon.

After retirement, she continued public service on contract with the Federal Ministry of Justice and remains active in charity work.

As Nigeria marks 70 years of women in policing, Okolo says she is proud to be among the pioneers and urged young women to embrace discipline, education, and faith in God, noting that perseverance can overcome envy and barriers.

She also paid tribute to past and present female police officers, describing them as trailblazers whose courage continues to inspire future generations.