By Chioma James
The Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) has reaffirmed its strategic partnership with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, stressing the critical role of the media in promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance in Nigeria.
This assurance was given during a familiarization visit by the leadership of the NUJ FCT Council to the PCRC National Secretariat in Abuja, marking a renewed commitment to stronger police-media collaboration.
Welcoming the delegation, PCRC National Chairman, Alhaji Mogaji Ibraheem Olaniyan, described journalists as indispensable partners in national development and community policing.
Olaniyan noted that responsible journalism plays a key role in shaping public perception, strengthening institutions, and fostering trust between the police and the communities they serve.
In her remarks, NUJ FCT Chairman, Ms. Grace Ike, commended Olaniyan for his humanitarian leadership and dedication to police welfare, describing him as a “man of the people” whose actions reflect genuine service to society.
She emphasized that the NUJ values constructive engagement with stakeholders who prioritize national interest, professionalism, and accountability.
Olaniyan expressed deep concern over the continued neglect of retired female police officers in post-service appointments, despite their experience, competence, and professional training.
He observed that while retired male police officers are frequently appointed as security advisers, consultants, and heads of security in public and private institutions, their female counterparts are often sidelined.
According to him, this disparity is not a reflection of capacity but a systemic bias that must be addressed through deliberate advocacy and inclusive policies.
The PCRC chairman stressed that opportunities in the security sector should be based strictly on merit, integrity, and experience, not gender.
He therefore urged the NUJ FCT Council to leverage its wide media reach to highlight the issue and drive a national conversation on gender-inclusive security appointments.
Olaniyan described journalists and police officers as two groups that enjoy unrestricted access to him, noting that both professions are essential to governance, public enlightenment, and democratic stability.
He cautioned journalists against one-sided reporting on police matters, emphasizing the need for balance, verification, and fairness in order not to undermine national institutions.
Responding, Ms. Ike assured the PCRC of the NUJ’s unwavering commitment to objective, balanced, and responsible journalism.
She pledged that the NUJ FCT Council would amplify PCRC activities through its network of over 700 journalists, ensuring accurate reporting and wider public awareness.
Ms. Ike stressed that collaboration must be mutual, adding that the NUJ is open to sustained engagement, story syndication, and collective problem-solving whenever issues arise.
Olaniyan also pledged to facilitate strategic partnerships for the NUJ FCT Council, including engagements with private sector stakeholders and philanthropists committed to police welfare and national development.
He highlighted several welfare initiatives undertaken by the PCRC, including scholarship programmes for children of police officers and support initiatives aimed at improving morale within the Nigeria Police Force.
The PCRC chairman reiterated that the committee operates without gender bias, noting that leadership positions within the organization are determined strictly by competence and service.
He cited notable examples of retired female police officers who have made remarkable contributions to national security, including a 96-year-old officer recently honoured by the PCRC for her meritorious service.
Olaniyan disclosed that the PCRC has honoured seven retired senior female police officers as part of activities marking 70 years of women’s service in the Nigeria Police Force.
He added that the Inspector-General of Police approved the selection of one retired female officer from each geopolitical zone for the anniversary recognition.
According to him, the PCRC’s goal is not to create employment directly, but to champion a nationwide advocacy encouraging government agencies and private organizations to engage retired female officers.
He urged PCRC members across the 36 states, as well as zonal, airport, railway, and marine chapters, to continue standing behind retired officers and promoting their inclusion.
The visit, which also discussed the NUJ FCT Council’s appeal for support in completing its abandoned secretariat project and affordable housing scheme, marked the beginning of a stronger, purpose-driven partnership.
Both organizations expressed optimism that the collaboration would enhance transparency, accountability, positive police-media relations, and overall national development.