Imaan Sulaiman-Abrahim, the Minister of Police Affairs (State), has expressed the Federal Government’s commitment to promoting a transparent and interactive dialogue between the ministry and citizens in selected states.
Addressing attendees in Umuahia at the “Citizens Town Hall Engagement on Strengthening Community Policing in Nigeria” event under the Renewed Hope Police Agenda, themed “Community Policing: Building A Safer Nigeria Together,” Sulaiman-Abrahim outlined the objective of the meeting. She stated, “The purpose is to facilitate an open dialogue, share information on ongoing police reforms, and gather feedback from citizens to enhance policing, particularly focusing on community policing strategies.”
She stressed the partnership’s goal to “establish transparent communication between the Ministry of Police Affairs and citizens in selected states, provide insights into current and planned police reforms in the Nigeria Police Force to enhance citizen awareness, and create a platform for citizens to voice concerns, ask questions, and offer feedback on policing issues affecting their communities.”
Emphasizing the anticipated outcomes, she stated, “The ultimate objective is to develop a comprehensive community policing policy and implementation framework,” highlighting specific outcomes like increased transparency in communication between the Ministry of Police Affairs and citizens, trust-building, enhanced citizen understanding of policing reforms, and integration of citizen feedback into future police strategies and policies.
In conclusion, Sulaiman-Abrahim emphasized the aim to modernize the Nigeria Police Force into a globally competitive institution that prioritizes public safety, upholds the rule of law, and builds community trust through accountability and transparency.
During the event, Abia State Governor Alex Otti reaffirmed his commitment to combating crime in the state through initiatives such as the security outfit “Operation Crush” to support the state’s vision of a 24-hour economy. He reiterated his dedication to ensuring community safety in Abia.
Meanwhile, Minister of Labour and Productivity Nkiru Onyejeocha praised the Ministry of Police Affairs for organizing the meeting, and commended Otti for his efforts in maintaining security in the state. Mohammed Sheidu, the Executive Secretary of the Nigeria Police Trust Fund, highlighted the significance of community policing as a more inclusive and collaborative approach to law enforcement.
Various stakeholders, including community leaders, government officials, and civil society organizations, were urged to embrace the principles of community policing. The Chairman of Abia State Traditional Rulers Council, Linus Mba, assured support from traditional rulers in maintaining peace and security, endorsing cooperation with law enforcement and the state government.
Further discussions involved Commissioner of Police Kenechukwu Onwuemelie describing community policing as a comprehensive philosophy that goes beyond traditional policing methods. National Chairman of the Police Community Relations Committee, Alh Mogaji Ibrahim Olaniyan, emphasized the importance of community engagement and urged individuals to report any suspicious activities.
The event included visits to the Police clinic and Police Children’s School, where Sulaiman-Abrahim acknowledged the need for improvements and pledged support from the ministry. She also addressed the officers and personnel of the Abia Police Command and the Police Officers Wives Association, POWA.