IWD 2026: Anambra CP, Orotugu Bags ‘New Sheriff’ Award as NAWOJ Celebrates Women

By Ukpa Ewa

The Commissioner for Police Anambra State Command Dr. Ikioye Orotugu, has been conferred with the award of “The New Sheriff in Town: Redefining Policing with Finesse and Firepower” at the 2026 International Women’s Day (IWD) celebration organised by the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Anambra State Chapter.

The event, held at Prof. Dora Akunyili Women Development Centre, Awka, was themed “Justice. Action. For All Women and Girls – Give to Gain: Projecting Anambra Female Achievers 2.0,” and attracted stakeholders from government, academia and the media to celebrate women’s contributions to societal development.

Speaking shortly after receiving the award, CP Orotugu commended women for their continued support in strengthening security in the state and expressed optimism for sustained peace. He noted that Anambra has witnessed relative calm since his assumption of office, with no recent attacks on police formations.

The police commissioner emphasised the need for parents to allow their children to choose career paths freely, describing women as pivotal to moral upbringing and nation building. He also highlighted ongoing efforts by the command to empower female officers through skills acquisition and specialised training, particularly in child care and professional duties.

Also speaking, the Vice Chancellor of Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University, Prof. Kate Omenugha, described her award as symbolic, reflecting resilience, discipline and sustained commitment to excellence. She urged women and girls to remain focused and ambitious, noting that success is built on consistency and hard work. She further advocated Nego-Feminism, which promotes negotiation, collaboration and mutual respect as tools for achieving inclusive progress.

Earlier in her welcome address, the Chairperson of NAWOJ, Anambra State Chapter, Comrade Tochukwu Ifejika, said the celebration was aimed at highlighting the growing impact of women across various sectors, while reinforcing the need for empowerment, mentorship and inclusion. She commended the Anambra State Government led by Governor Chukwuma Soludo, for advancing women’s participation in governance.

Other award recipients included Ace Broadcaster, Dr. Ify Aronu; Chairman, Anambra State Universal Basic Education Board (ASUBEB), Dr. Vera Nwadinobi; Barr. Oge Ekweozor; and the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Christian Aburime, who was honoured as Media Personality of the Year, among others.

The keynote address was delivered by the Deputy Vice Chancellor of Paul University, Awka, Prof. Stella Chinyere Okunna, while partners were also recognised for their contributions to the success of the event.