By Oladapo Udom
A security strategist and community policing advocate, Mr Matthew Ibadin, has called for stronger engagement between the Nigeria Police Force and communities to enhance trust and improve information sharing for security operations.
Speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday in Lagos, Ibadin said effective policing depends on close collaboration between law enforcement agencies and residents.
He noted that sustained community engagement remained essential to strengthening public cooperation and supporting security efforts across the country.
According to him, when communities and the police maintain strong relationships, it becomes easier to share timely and useful information that supports crime prevention and public safety.
“When people trust the police and see them as partners in their communities, they are more willing to provide information that can assist security operations,” he said.
Ibadin advised that the police continue to deepen community engagement through sporting activities, social outreach programmes, and participation in local events to further strengthen relations with residents.
He also suggested that such initiatives could include support for community projects and cultural events as part of broader efforts to build goodwill and mutual understanding.
He further encouraged strategic communication initiatives that highlight positive aspects of policing and ongoing reforms within the security sector.
According to him, improved public perception can complement operational efforts and enhance collaboration in maintaining law and order.
Ibadin also noted that in many instances, community members play a key role in providing information during police investigations, stressing the importance of sustaining trust to support effective policing.
“Crime is local, and communities often have valuable knowledge that can assist security operations,” he said.
He added that the Nigeria Police Force had established internal mechanisms to uphold professionalism and ensure accountability within its ranks.
Ibadin maintained that continued efforts to strengthen community relations and institutional capacity would further enhance the effectiveness of policing across the country. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)