Nigeria’s Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has directed Commissioners of Police across the country to intensify community policing efforts through regular town hall meetings and improved public accessibility within their commands.
A statement by the Police said Disu issued the directive during an emergency conference with Commissioners of Police and journalists at the Force Headquarters in Abuja,.
According to the police chief, effective policing cannot succeed without the trust, cooperation and active participation of the public, stressing that security remains a collective responsibility requiring close collaboration between the police and communities.
Under the initiative, Commissioners of Police are to hold regular interactive sessions with traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, market associations, transport unions, women groups and other community-based organisations.
Disu also directed police commissioners to make their contact details accessible to recognised community leaders in their states to strengthen communication, improve responsiveness and build public confidence in policing operations. The police chief said community-driven intelligence remained critical in combating crime and addressing emerging security threats. He added that stronger police-community relations would improve public safety and operational effectiveness nationwide.
The Nigeria Police Force said it remained committed to a people-centred and accountable policing system anchored on partnership, transparency and mutual trust.