By Hassan Zaggi
The Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, has disclosed that security is at the top of the agenda of the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led government.
He, therefore, called for the need to implement what he described as actionable strategies towards effective security, peaceful coexistence, and the welfare of all citizens in Nigeria.
He stated this during the recently concluded conference and seminar for the Nigeria Police Public Relation Officers (PPROs) and PR experts in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Represented by the Director, Police Inspectorate Department of the Ministry, Mrs. Bola Blessing Aderele, the Minister said that effective policing and peaceful coexistence are critical requirements for societal growth and shared prosperity.
“Over the years, people with little or no personal contact with police form perceptions, even though they are shaped vicariously, through what they hear from friends, family and what they see in the news and the social media.
“This poses challenges for the police, as it contributes to the image of the police and perception of police effectiveness,” he said.
Senator Gaidam explained that enhanced strategic communication provides the police the needed tool to re-write the aforementioned narrative, to regain the trust and confidence of the people to herald people-centric policing paradigm and improve police efficiency.
The Minister, however, applauded the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, and his management team for the initiative, noting that the seminar will further strengthen the operations of the Nigeria Police Press and liaison units nationwide to help build community partnership, deepen citizens’ participation in policing arrangements.
This, he noted, will also position the Nigeria police to play it critical role in achieving the “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Ahmed Asiwaju Tinubu led administration.
In a related development, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Police Affairs, Dr. Nasir Sani Gwarzo, has reiterated his support for the Odua Youth Parliament for promoting security and peace and encouraging cultural harmony among Nigerians.
He made this known during a presentation of a certificate of Chieftancy by the Odua Youth Parliament for his good leadership in public service and continuous contribution towards empowerment and support for youth development projects in the country.
Gwarzo vowed that the Ministry will continue to emplace policies, programs and pursue interventions that will enable the youths to play their roles in the police ecosystem in Nigeria.
Speaking, the Speaker Oodua Youth Parliament, Aare Abdulmajeed Oyeniyi, said that the award was aimed at “appreciating the good deed, motivation, and exemplary leadership the Permanent Secretary has exhibited in the public service in the country.
“We have been following your activities right from Ministries of Industry, Trade, and Investment and Humanitarian as well as your present post.
“You have shown commitment for the development of projects that will benefit youths in the country.”
