The Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) has officially commenced the construction of its National Secretariat in Abuja with a groundbreaking ceremony attended by senior police officers, PCRC executives, and members from across the country.
The foundation-laying ceremony, held on Wednesday in Abuja, was performed by Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) Victor Olaiya alongside the Commissioner of Police for the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), CP Muhammed Sanusi.
Speaking at the event, AIG Olaiya described the project as a major milestone in the history of the PCRC, expressing pride in the achievements of the current leadership of the organisation.
He said the foundation ceremony marked the beginning of a new phase for the committee, noting that the project would soon become a reality with continued support from members and stakeholders.
Olaiya commended the leadership of the PCRC National Chairman for driving the initiative and urged Nigerians to join the organisation and contribute to community policing efforts nationwide.
“I have seen PCRC achieve great things across the country. Nigerians should be part of it and not be left behind,” he said.
Also speaking, the FCT Commissioner of Police, CP Muhammed Sanusi, described the occasion as a moment of pride for the Nigeria Police Force and the PCRC.
Sanusi expressed optimism that the contractors would deliver the project within the agreed timeline, adding that he looked forward to the official commissioning of the secretariat upon completion.
“It is a thing of pride that the current executive of the PCRC is able to achieve this project. Others had the vision, but destiny has made it possible during their tenure,” he said.
The CP also used the occasion to encourage more women and youths to join the PCRC, lamenting their low participation in the organisation.
He stressed that membership of the PCRC promotes community involvement in security matters and enhances trust between citizens and security agencies.
“We are calling on women to come and even pilot the affairs of the PCRC because they say women do things better,” Sanusi stated.
Earlier, the National Chairman of the PCRC, Alhaji Mogaji Ibrahim Olaniyan, said the project became possible following approvals granted during the organisation’s 40th anniversary celebrations.
According to him, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) approved the commencement of work on the permanent secretariat, while private developers were engaged to support the project.
Olaniyan disclosed that the building would be named after the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, whom he described as a strong supporter of the PCRC.
He also praised AIG Victor Olaiya for his commitment to strengthening the organisation, noting that his leadership had contributed significantly to the progress recorded by the PCRC.
As part of activities marking its 42nd anniversary celebration, the PCRC also flagged off free medical checks for members nationwide.
The initiative, according to the organisation, is aimed at promoting the welfare and well-being of members while encouraging preventive healthcare practices within the PCRC community.
