The Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu, has stressed that lasting security in Nigeria depends on strong cooperation between the police and the public.
Represented by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Logistics and Supply, DIG Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, he made this known on Thursday during the 42nd anniversary celebration of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) in Abuja.
He said the PCRC has remained a key pillar of community-based policing, helping to build trust and collaboration between the police and citizens.
He stated, “Security is not the responsibility of the police alone. It is a shared duty, one that thrives when citizens and law enforcement work hand in hand.”
He praised the PCRC for its long-standing role in strengthening relationships between communities and the police through support, advocacy, and crisis intervention.
“Your legacy is written in countless acts of service, the bridges you have built between communities and the police, the trust you have nurtured in moments of tension, the support you have provided in times of crisis and the advocacy you have championed for safer neighbourhoods,” he said.
The IG noted that future policing in Nigeria would rely more on collaboration, intelligence sharing, and active community involvement.
He added that the Nigeria Police Force is committed to a modern policing system that is proactive, technology-driven, and community-focused.
“But no strategy, no reform and no innovation can succeed without the trust and involvement of the people. This is where the PCRC remains indispensable,” he added.
He further urged stronger public engagement and continuous dialogue to build safer and more peaceful communities.
“The future we envision — a future of safe, resilient and peaceful communities — will require renewed commitment to community engagement, stronger involvement, enhanced public trust and continuous dialogue between the police and the people we serve,” he said.
He also encouraged the PCRC to adopt new ideas, technology, and partnerships in line with modern policing needs.
“The PCRC must continue to evolve, embracing new ideas, new technologies and new partnerships that reflect the realities of modern policing,” he stated.
He assured that the police would continue to support the committee in promoting community policing across the country.
“Together, we will continue to advance the ideals of community-oriented policing and build a nation where every citizen feels safe, valued and protected,” he added.
The National Chairman of the PCRC, Alhaji Mogaji Olaniyan, commended the police leadership for strengthening collaboration and supporting the organisation’s activities.
He revealed that the PCRC has expanded its reach beyond Nigeria to several countries including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, and others.
The PCRC, established in 1984, continues to serve as a bridge between the police and the public in promoting peace and tackling insecurity at the grassroots level.
