IGP Disu Urges CPs to Strengthen Media Engagement, Community Relations
The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, on Wednesday declared open a two-day workshop on Strategic Communication and Media Relations for Commissioners of Police (CPs) from commands across the country.
The workshop, themed “Enhancing Strategic Communication and Media Relations,” is being held at the Nigeria Police Public Relations School (NPPRS), Abuja Centre, and is attended by members of the Force Management Team, senior police officers, and resource persons.
In his welcome address, the Provost of the NPPRS, retired Commissioner of Police Emmanuel Ojukwu, highlighted the school’s journey from Kulende, Ilorin, to Lafia, and now Abuja. He emphasized that while Public Relations Officers help manage the image of the Nigeria Police Force, the institution’s reputation is ultimately shaped by the conduct and professionalism of officers on duty.
Ojukwu urged the Commissioners of Police to ensure that lessons from the workshop are passed on to officers under their commands, adding that seven resource persons had been engaged to facilitate the programme.
Declaring the workshop open, IGP Disu commended police officers nationwide for their dedication and sacrifices in maintaining internal security. He observed that many officers assume the office of Commissioner of Police without adequate exposure to media engagement, noting that the workshop was designed to bridge that gap.
The IGP stressed that the responsibilities of a Commissioner of Police extend beyond the prestige of the office, describing CPs as managers and leaders who must remain visible and accessible within their communities. He encouraged them to attend community events, visit schools, and create positive legacies in their areas of responsibility.
Disu further urged the Commissioners to take ownership of the media space by promoting the activities and achievements of the Force. He reaffirmed that internal security remains the Nigeria Police Force’s core mandate and described the Force as the country’s leading security agency.
The Police boss also praised recent security operations led by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Police Mobile Force, as well as Commissioners of Police in Kogi and other states, for their efforts in tackling crime.
Calling for a more proactive approach to communication, the IGP advised the Commissioners to build strong relationships with journalists, engage the public with humility, and respond promptly during crises.
“Guns protect lives, but your voices protect our reputation,” Disu told the participants, urging them to view the media as partners in policing rather than adversaries.
The workshop forms part of the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to strengthening the communication and leadership capacity of its senior officers while promoting professionalism, transparency, and public confidence in policing nationwide.
