The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has 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, with members of the Force Management Team, senior police officers, and resource persons in attendance.
In his welcome address, the Provost of the school, retired Commissioner of Police Emmanuel Ojukwu, traced the institution’s development from Ilorin to Lafia and its current Abuja Centre. He stressed that while Police Public Relations Officers manage the Force’s image, the conduct and professionalism of officers in the field ultimately shape public perception.
Ojukwu urged the participating commissioners to apply the knowledge gained during the workshop and ensure it is passed on to junior officers in their respective commands. He also disclosed that seven resource persons would facilitate sessions during the programme.
Speaking at the event, IGP Disu commended police officers nationwide for their commitment to duty and operational achievements.
He noted that media engagement has not traditionally formed part of the career development of many officers before their appointment as commissioners, describing the workshop as an effort to bridge that gap.
The IGP reminded the commissioners that their responsibilities extend beyond the prestige of the office, emphasizing that they are managers and leaders expected to engage actively with their communities. He encouraged them to attend community events, visit schools, and leave positive legacies in their areas of responsibility.
Disu also urged the commissioners to take a proactive approach to communication by strengthening their media presence and building constructive relationships with journalists. He described the media as partners in policing and called on officers to engage the public with humility, respond promptly to emerging issues, and establish media relationships before crises arise.
Reaffirming the Nigeria Police Force’s role as the country’s leading internal security agency, the IGP commended recent security operations led by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Police Mobile Force, as well as the Commissioners of Police in Kogi and other states.
He emphasized that while security personnel protect lives through operational duties, effective communication is essential in safeguarding the reputation of the Force.
The Nigeria Police Force said the workshop underscores its commitment to equipping senior officers with the communication and media engagement skills needed to promote a professional, accessible, and people-oriented police service.