The Nigeria Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening community policing and supporting the Nigeria Police Force, as the Force Public Relations Officer (FPRO), CSP Anietie Okokon Edem Iniedu, commended the committee for launching its Safe Schools Initiative and pledged the full support of the Nigeria Police Force towards advancing the programme and other PCRC initiatives.
Speaking during a visit to the PCRC National Secretariat in Abuja, the Force PRO expressed appreciation to members of the committee for their patience, dedication and sustained commitment to promoting police-community relations across the country.
"I thank you for your persistence. I thank you for your patience. If you had not been persistent and patient, the PCRC would not have remained as strong as it is today," Iniedu said.
The police spokesperson apologized for arriving late to the event, explaining that official engagements had delayed his attendance, but stressed that it was important for him to personally honour the invitation.
Reflecting on his background, Iniedu described himself as a son and grandson of police officers, noting that he had grown up hearing about the invaluable contributions of the PCRC to policing in Nigeria.
He particularly applauded the PCRC for its newly launched Safe Schools Initiative, describing it as a laudable project that aligns with the Nigeria Police Force's commitment to protecting schools and ensuring safer learning environments across the country.
The Force PRO also commended the National Chairman of the PCRC, Alhaji Mogaji Ibraheem Olaniyan, for his passion, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to supporting the Nigeria Police Force.
Recalling a recent encounter with the chairman, Iniedu narrated how Olaniyan waited several hours at his office just to meet with him, describing the gesture as a demonstration of uncommon dedication.
"If a man of his age can wait until late in the evening just to support the police, then I have no excuse not to support this organisation," he said.
Iniedu also disclosed that Inspector-General of Police IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu warmly received PCRC ceremonial lapels presented by the chairman and immediately directed that they be worn by a civilian staff member in his office after offering prayers over them, describing the action as evidence of the Police leadership's commitment to the ideals of the PCRC.
The Force PRO further appreciated the PCRC for donating cameras to Police Public Relations Officers and his office, describing the support as a significant contribution towards improving police public communication.
Declaring his total commitment to the committee, Iniedu said he would continue to support PCRC activities throughout his tenure as Force Public Relations Officer.
"You have my full backing. Anywhere you call me, anytime, I will be there. I will continue to support this laudable project and every initiative that promotes the objectives of the PCRC," he stated.
Earlier, the National Chairman of the PCRC, Alhaji Mogaji Ibraheem Olaniyan, described Inspector-General of Police IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu as an outstanding police leader whose humility, accessibility and commitment to community policing have distinguished his administration.
According to Olaniyan, the PCRC has worked with several Inspectors-General of Police over the years, but noted that the current leadership has demonstrated exceptional openness and commitment to partnership with the committee.
He also praised CSP Iniedu for his accessibility and dedication to strengthening collaboration between the Nigeria Police Force and the PCRC.
The chairman announced that the PCRC is expanding its Safe Schools Initiative, with plans to mobilise 10,000 volunteers nationwide to work with the Nigeria Police, community leaders and other security stakeholders in protecting schools across the country.
He disclosed that the initiative would also support the installation of CCTV surveillance systems, particularly in schools located in vulnerable and remote communities, to improve security and deter criminal activities.
Olaniyan further revealed that construction of the new PCRC National Headquarters is progressing steadily and is expected to be completed and commissioned in December.
According to him, members of the committee have unanimously resolved to name the new national headquarters after Inspector-General of Police IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu in recognition of his commitment to community policing and his support for the PCRC.
He added that the facility would also include a dedicated office for the Force Public Relations Officer to further strengthen collaboration between the Police and the PCRC.
The event reaffirmed the shared commitment of the Nigeria Police Force and the PCRC to deepen community policing, enhance school safety, improve public trust and strengthen security through sustained partnership and citizen participation.
