The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has commended the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) for its decades-long commitment to supporting the Nigeria Police Force, describing the organisation as a critical partner in policing, intelligence gathering, and community-based security.
The IGP made the remarks while receiving the leadership of the PCRC on a courtesy visit to the Force Headquarters, Abuja, where he expressed deep appreciation for the group’s unwavering dedication to the welfare and operational effectiveness of the police.
Speaking emotionally, IGP Disu revealed a personal connection to the PCRC, noting that his 90-year-old father remains an active and respected life member of the organisation.
According to him, he grew up witnessing firsthand the sacrifices and patriotism of PCRC members, especially through his father’s support to the police.
“My father has been a member of the PCRC for many years and is regarded as a life member in his area. I grew up watching him support the police—repairing police vehicles, providing fuel, and assisting officers in various ways. At the time, I did not fully understand why he was so committed, but today I know the reason,” the IGP said.
He praised the PCRC for consistently providing both material and moral support to police formations across the country, including repairs of damaged infrastructure, provision of office furniture, and assistance with basic facilities such as electricity.
The police boss also highlighted the committee’s strategic role in intelligence gathering and crisis prevention, citing its support during periods of heightened tension and public unrest.
He recalled how the PCRC, alongside retired police officers, played a vital role in helping to maintain calm during a previous 10-day nationwide protest, particularly while he served as Commissioner of Police in Rivers State.
“When there was tension, I reached out to retired police officers and the PCRC. I gave them assignments, and they went out to work. In Rivers State, many expected chaos, but throughout that period, the state remained calm. That shows the strength of your grassroots network and your commitment to peace,” he stated.
IGP Disu assured the PCRC leadership that the Force Management Team recognises the value of the organisation and is taking deliberate steps to ensure that Commissioners of Police, Area Commanders, and Divisional Police Officers across the country accord the committee the respect and recognition it deserves.
He stressed the need to reduce bureaucracy in police-community engagement and encouraged the PCRC leadership to maintain direct contact with members of the Force Management Team for quicker resolution of issues.
“Coming here is not just about seeing the IGP. It is also about knowing the members of my management team. You should leave here with their phone numbers so that we can reduce bureaucracy. If you have any challenge, feel free to reach out directly,” he said.
The IGP, however, urged the PCRC to remain vigilant against individuals who may seek to misuse the organisation’s identity for personal gain or to evade accountability.
He warned against any member using PCRC affiliation or identity cards to engage in misconduct or unlawful acts, stressing that integrity must remain the hallmark of the committee.
“We value every member of the PCRC who genuinely supports the police, but we must also be watchful of those who may want to use the identity of the organisation for the wrong reasons. No one should hide behind any identity card while doing what is wrong,” he cautioned.
Earlier, in his remarks, the National Chairman of the PCRC, Alhaji Ibrahim Mogaji Olaniyan, said the visit was to reaffirm the committee’s loyalty to the Nigeria Police Force and to further strengthen collaboration under the leadership of IGP Disu.
Olaniyan described the IGP as a “personal gift” to the PCRC, noting that members of the committee view him as one of their own, especially given his family’s longstanding connection with the organisation.
He said the PCRC, which will mark its 42nd anniversary on May 7, 2026, remains committed to complementing the efforts of the police through humanitarian support, grassroots mobilisation, and community intelligence.
According to him, the committee has consistently gone beyond rhetoric by demonstrating practical support to the police, including the repair of three vehicles for the Force Headquarters and recognition of outstanding officers nationwide.
He disclosed that the PCRC has, over the years, honoured 71 police officers for exceptional service during its annual retreats and activities, with plans underway to honour nine additional junior police officers during the forthcoming anniversary celebration in honour of the IGP, bringing the total to 80 awardees.
“We are not just calling on people to support the police; we are leading by example. We have celebrated 71 police officers so far, and during our 42nd anniversary, we intend to honour nine more junior officers in recognition of the Inspector-General’s commitment to prioritising their welfare,” Olaniyan said.
The PCRC chairman further said the organisation is expanding its national units and drawing professionals from various sectors—including academia, skilled trades, and artisans—to deepen grassroots engagement and encourage community participation in security.
He also disclosed plans by the committee to partner with the police on a new initiative targeting primary and secondary schools, aimed at addressing the growing spread of cult-related and anti-social behaviour among young people at the grassroots.
Olaniyan said the proposed intervention would involve sensitisation campaigns in schools and community-level advocacy to promote discipline, civic responsibility, and support for law enforcement.
“We have observed that social vices and cult-related issues are no longer confined to tertiary institutions. We are preparing to launch a committee that will work with the police to take awareness directly to primary and secondary schools. We want to help shape the minds of the younger generation early,” he stated.
He reaffirmed the PCRC’s readiness to continue supporting the Nigeria Police Force through community engagement, information sharing, and humanitarian interventions, while also offering prayers for the success of the IGP’s leadership.
There was also an engagement with the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), DCP Anthony Okon Placid aimed at strengthening collaboration, deepening institutional relationships, and advancing the shared commitment of the PCRC and the Nigeria Police Force towards enhanced community policing, public safety, and national security.
The visit underscored the longstanding partnership between the Nigeria Police Force and the PCRC, with both sides reiterating their shared commitment to strengthening trust, improving public safety, and deepening community participation in policing across the country.
