…Celebrates 98th Birthday
As Nigeria continues to face worsening security challenges, a prominent Lagos socialite and community leader, Chief (Mrs.) Funke Arthur-Worrey, has called for the adoption of state policing as a solution to the country’s insecurity crisis.
Speaking in an interview to mark her 98th birthday, Arthur-Worrey, a former president of the Ikeja Lioness Club and executive member of the Nigerian Federation of Business and Professional Women, said state policing would allow each state to address its unique security problems effectively.
“To me, state police is the only way out,” she said. “Each state should establish and develop its own police, recruit indigenes of the state and train them well. That’s how it works in the United States, and it’s something we should emulate.”
Arthur-Worrey expressed doubt about the effectiveness of regional security networks like Amotekun, noting that while well-intentioned, they may not fully address the specific security needs of each state.
“All the states do not have the same security problems. If state police is properly implemented and regulated, it would be wonderful,” she said.
Born and raised in Lagos, Arthur-Worrey also reflected on the transformation of the city over the decades. According to her, Lagos was once a peaceful and tightly-knit community where residents walked barefoot in safety and mutual respect.
“Lagos was beautiful. We knew everyone. There was no insecurity. People lived together peacefully and took care of one another,” she said. “Now, it’s overcrowded and there’s little regard for community living.”
She lamented the current state of the city, especially the growing number of beggars and lack of coordinated urban management. However, she noted her continued love for Lagos and its history.
Despite her family’s strong political background—her brother being the late nationalist and politician, Chief H.O. Davies—Arthur-Worrey said she never considered active politics, citing the loss of personal freedom and constant public criticism as reasons.
“I talk politics, but I wasn’t born to be a politician,” she stated.
Commenting on the low number of women in Nigeria’s political space, including the current Senate composition with just three female members, she urged women not to be discouraged. “Women are trying, and we’ll get there someday. They are speaking out bravely across the country.”
She also called for increased support for girl-child education, especially in parts of the country where cultural and systemic barriers persist.
At 98, Arthur-Worrey remains mentally alert and physically active, attributing her longevity to her faith and a positive outlook on life. “The secret is my God, Jehovah. Be content, be friendly, and enjoy what God has given you,” she advised.
She maintains a simple but fulfilling routine that includes attending social functions, listening to music—particularly by Afrobeat legend Fela Anikulapo-Kuti—and engaging with younger generations.
“Fela is my favorite musician. Everything he sang about is still happening. He was a visionary,” she said, adding that she still enjoys dancing to old music and participating in events organized by her societies and family.
Arthur-Worrey concluded by emphasizing values of humility, community, and personal happiness as key lessons from her nearly century-long life. “Enjoy life. Love your neighbors. Be humble. Travel when you can, and take care of yourself,” she said.
As she celebrates her 98th year, her message is one of gratitude, optimism, and a firm belief that Nigeria—despite its current challenges—can be better with the right leadership, inclusive governance, and return to core values of community and accountability.