Police call for youth partnership to combat crime and misinformation

The Nigeria Police Force has called on young Nigerians to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to fight crime and the spread of false information, emphasizing that the police should be seen as partners in ensuring public safety.

The appeal was made by Olohundare Jimoh, the Assistant Inspector General of Police for Zone 2, during a summit in Lagos. The event, titled “Youth-Police Engagement Programme Across the IBILE Divisions of Lagos,” was organized by the Lagos State Office of Political, Legislative and Civic Engagement in partnership with the Bureau of Public Defender.

Jimoh identified the youth as crucial stakeholders in fostering peace, security, and sustainable development. He stated that effective youth engagement is a cornerstone of modern policing, essential for building trust, strengthening community cooperation, and ultimately improving public safety.

“Young people are not only future leaders but also agents of change who have a responsibility to counter misinformation, hate speech, and false narratives capable of undermining national security,” he remarked.

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The AIG urged youths to support law enforcement by providing credible intelligence on criminal activities and maintaining a constructive relationship with police in their communities. He stressed that policing must be founded on respect for human rights, accountability, and community partnership to earn public confidence.

Jimoh commended the Lagos State Government for its consistent efforts to promote police-youth dialogue and its sustained support for security agencies. He noted that the government’s investments in security infrastructure and youth development have significantly contributed to reducing crime in the state.

He also praised Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for providing operational support that has bolstered policing in both Lagos and neighboring Ogun State. According to Jimoh, the Inspector-General of Police has directed commanders nationwide to prioritize community-oriented policing through youth engagement, mentorship, and public enlightenment initiatives.

Reaffirming the force’s commitment to a people-centered approach, Jimoh assured attendees that the police are open to constructive criticism and dedicated to improving service delivery. He encouraged young people to embrace the rule of law and work alongside the police to create a safer society.

The AIG explained that the police have moved beyond the slogan “Police is your friend” to become genuine partners committed to protecting lives and property through community involvement. He highlighted that modern policing cannot succeed without public trust and active citizen participation, especially from the youth, who form a large part of the population.

“We are your friends and your partners. Do not be afraid to approach us. We are here to serve you and work with you in addressing security challenges,” Jimoh stated. “Our duty is to protect lives and property, and we can only do that effectively when the people see us as partners.”

He concluded by urging youths to resist negative influences, shun criminality, and avoid being manipulated by those seeking to disrupt public order. Jimoh expressed confidence that stronger collaboration between the police and the community will enhance both security and national development.

An Assistant Inspector-General of Police has called on young Nigerians to use social media with caution, emphasizing the need to verify information before sharing it. He warned that the spread of misinformation could escalate tensions, provoke violence, and pose a threat to national security.

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The AIG, identified as Jimoh, encouraged youths to be law-abiding citizens and to actively assist in intelligence gathering by providing security agencies with credible information. He stressed that their contributions are vital for building a peaceful and secure society.

He expressed confidence that enhanced collaboration between the police and the nation’s youth would lead to improved security, build public trust, and reinforce community policing efforts nationwide.

Furthermore, the AIG advised young Nigerians to prepare themselves for future leadership roles by adopting positive values, respecting the law, and actively participating in the development of their local communities.

He also praised the Lagos State Government for its efforts in promoting initiatives that encourage closer relationships between security forces and the public, particularly through programs targeted at young people.