Police trust stands at the centre of every secure society. It grows when communication stays clear, fast, and sincere. This truth shaped the message of the Inspector-General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, as he addressed Police Public Relations Officers during their four-day conference at the Police Resource Centre in Jabi, Abuja. He stressed that the Nigeria Police Force must never drift apart from the people it exists to protect. Instead, it must build stronger links through effective communication and consistent engagement.
The IGP reminded the officers that trust cannot flourish in silence. He urged them to act as the main bridge between the police and citizens. He explained that Nigerians want quick answers, honest updates, and open channels. He noted that the entire security system improves when citizens receive accurate information at the right time. He also stressed that every PPRO carries a duty to strengthen confidence in policing through steady clarity and professional conduct.
Moreover, he explained that modern challenges demand fresh communication skills. He stated that rumours spread fast, and false stories move even faster. Therefore, he urged PPROs to track rising issues early and respond with facts before confusion spreads. He emphasised that this proactive method protects police credibility, strengthens public understanding, and reduces unnecessary tension. He encouraged them to remain alert, study online trends, and prepare verified information ahead of emerging situations.
Additionally, the IGP highlighted that Nigeria’s security environment evolves daily. He explained that citizens now rely on digital platforms for real-time updates. Because of this shift, he advised PPROs to adopt smarter communication tools, build stronger media partnerships, and promote positive policing stories. He called for more community-based engagement to close the gap between officers and the people. He insisted that police communication must reflect transparency, empathy, and steady professionalism.
He also charged them to use their positions to promote unity within the Force. He noted that each PPRO represents the values, discipline, and strength of the Nigeria Police. He encouraged them to support officers with guidance, promote accountability, and highlight positive achievements across commands. He stressed that constructive internal communication improves morale and sharpens operational focus, which in turn builds public confidence.
Furthermore, he explained that citizens judge the police not only by operations but also by communication. He encouraged PPROs to listen to public concerns with patience and respond with balanced clarity. He urged them to avoid defensive tones and instead embrace a service-driven approach that promotes understanding and reduces conflict. He noted that honest engagement helps communities see officers as partners, not distant authorities.
He also touched on the need for continuous capacity building. He revealed that the Force now invests in modern communication training, digital media skills, crisis messaging, and community engagement methods. He urged PPROs to use every learning opportunity to improve their delivery. He stressed that skilled communicators strengthen national security because they guide public perception during tense moments.
In closing, he affirmed that Nigeria depends on strong institutions to maintain peace. He insisted that PPROs hold a special mandate to protect the reputation of the Force through efficient, ethical, and timely communication. He urged them to carry this responsibility with pride, courage, and steady dedication.
Through this call, the IGP reinforced a simple truth: police trust begins with communication, grows through consistency, and becomes strong through shared commitment.
