IGP Disu to Police Chiefs: Treat Journalists as Partners, Not Adversaries

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The Inspector-General of Police (IGP) Olatunji Rilwan Disu has urged Commissioners of Police across the country to build strong working relationships with journalists, describing the media as critical partners in effective policing and public trust.

The IGP gave the charge on Wednesday while declaring open a two-day workshop on "Enhancing Strategic Communication and Media Relations" for Commissioners of Police at the Nigeria Police Public Relations School (NPPRS) Abuja Centre.

Addressing participants, IGP Disu said senior police officers must embrace proactive communication and engage the media before crises emerge, rather than reacting after incidents have escalated.

He stressed that Commissioners of Police should project professionalism, respond promptly to public concerns and strengthen their visibility within the communities they serve.

"Treat journalists as partners, not adversaries," the IGP said, adding that "guns protect lives, but your voices protect our reputation."

IGP Disu noted that although many officers rise through operational policing, media engagement has not traditionally been part of their career development, making the workshop necessary to bridge that gap.

He also urged police commissioners to attend community events, visit schools and build lasting relationships that would enhance public confidence in the Nigeria Police Force.

Earlier, the Provost of the Nigeria Police Public Relations School, retired Commissioner of Police Emmanuel Ojukwu, said the image of the Police is ultimately shaped by the conduct of officers on the field rather than public relations campaigns.

He encouraged participants to transfer the knowledge gained during the workshop to officers under their command to improve communication and service delivery nationwide.

The workshop brought together Commissioners of Police from across the country, members of the Force Management Team, resource persons and other senior police officers as part of efforts to strengthen strategic communication within the Nigeria Police Force.

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