The Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO) of the Nigeria Police Force, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, has called for closer collaboration between the media and the police to enhance national security and strengthen public trust.
Hundeyin made this appeal during a courtesy visit to the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council in Abuja.
Speaking during the visit, the FPRO stressed the critical role of the media in modern policing, emphasizing that his work as police spokesman would be difficult without the active support of journalists.
“I cannot succeed in this role without the collaboration of the press,” Hundeyin said. “Policing relies heavily on information. Officers can’t be everywhere at once, which is why tips and shared intelligence from the public are so important. But when the public loses trust in us, those vital sources of information dry up, and that puts everyone at risk.”
Hundeyin urged journalists to embrace balanced and responsible reportage, warning that negative or misleading stories could harm public confidence in the police and undermine efforts to combat crime.
He clarified that his call was not an attempt to control the press, but rather to foster mutual understanding and cooperation.
“I am appealing to you today, help us build trust,” he said. “Let’s work together through open communication and partnership to make both the police and the country stronger.”
Hundeyin also assured journalists that the police would respond swiftly and fairly to any issues they encounter while carrying out their duties, especially during interactions with officers.
NUJ FCT Pledges Support for Police Partnership
In her remarks, NUJ FCT Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike, welcomed Hundeyin’s visit and expressed readiness to collaborate with the police for the greater good of the public.
“On behalf of the NUJ FCT Council, I warmly welcome you,” she said. “We value this effort by the police to connect directly with the media. It shows a strong commitment to open dialogue and better understanding.”
Comrade Ike reaffirmed the union’s stance against harassment or intimidation of journalists, noting that press freedom is a constitutional right.
She emphasized that trust and cooperation are vital to combating misinformation and ensuring the public has access to accurate and timely information.
“As journalists, we recognize the key role the police play in maintaining peace and order,” Ike added. “At the same time, the public needs honest reporting to have confidence in security agencies. That’s why our relationship must be built on trust and cooperation.”
The NUJ FCT chairman pledged the council’s full support for initiatives aimed at promoting responsible journalism and national security.
Hundeyin was warmly received by Comrade Ike and other NUJ FCT executives, including Secretary Comrade Jide Oyekunle, Assistant Secretary Ms. Sharon Emefia, Auditor Rosemary Ukoko-Tega, Financial Secretary Henry Daniel Abimiku, and Ex-Officio 1 Ebriku John Friday.