The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has directed Commissioners of Police across Nigeria to intensify community policing through regular town hall meetings and improved public engagement.
The directive was issued during an emergency conference with Commissioners of Police and members of the press at the Force Headquarters in Abuja, according to a statement on Friday by the Force Public Relations Officer, DCP Anthony Placid.
Disu said effective policing could not succeed without the trust, cooperation and active participation of citizens.
“Effective policing cannot succeed without the trust, cooperation, and active participation of the people,” the IGP said, stressing that security remained “a collective responsibility requiring strong collaboration between the Police and communities.”
As part of the new directive, Commissioners of Police were instructed to hold regular interactive sessions with key stakeholders, including traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups, market associations, transport unions, women groups and other community-based organisations.
The police chief also ordered state Commissioners of Police to make their contact details accessible to recognised community leaders in their respective states to strengthen communication and improve responsiveness.
According to him, the move is aimed at building public confidence in policing operations and enhancing intelligence gathering at the grassroots level.
Disu noted that community-driven intelligence remained critical in combating crime and tackling emerging security threats across the country.
“Stronger police-community relationships will enhance public safety and operational effectiveness nationwide,” he added.
