By Adewole Kehinde
“Without publicity, there can be no public support, and without public support, every nation must decay.” – Benjamin Disraeli
On October 30th, 2023, the Inspector General of Police approved a 5-day conference and seminar for police public relations officers across the country to educate them on the need to embrace the core values and principles of public relations and strategic communication toward achieving effective policing and national unity in Nigeria.
The conference, which was originally scheduled for November 27th to 29th, 2023, has been rescheduled for December 10th to 15th, 2023, and will begin today in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.
Since his appointment as the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi has not relented in ensuring that all the police spokespersons from the 17 Police Zonal Commands, 36 State Commands, and the FCT are professional in maintaining a favourable public image for the Nigeria Police.
I was part of the Police Public Relations Officers’ Conference, Ibadan, Oyo State, that took place on Monday, December 12, 2022, at Kakanfo Inn and Conference Center, Ibadan, Oyo State. The conference centered around strengthening strategic communication towards police reforms, security, and integrity in the 2023 general elections, and the impact was felt after the general election.
As the PPROs Conference and seminar themed “Enhanced Strategy Communication: Panacea for Effective Policing and Peaceful Coexistence in Nigeria” kick off today, December 10, 2023, in Uyo, I would like to list the benefits of the event to Nigeria.
Improved communication: The conference will provide an opportunity for the police force to effectively communicate with the public and the media. It will allow them to share important updates, address concerns, and clarify any misconceptions. This will also help to build trust and transparency between the police and the community.
Strengthened relationships: By bringing together police officers, government officials, community leaders, and members of the public, the conference will help to foster positive relationships. It will also allow for networking and collaboration, which can lead to better cooperation in crime prevention and law enforcement efforts.
Increased public awareness: The conference will serve as a platform to educate the public about various aspects of the police force’s work. This will include information about new initiatives, crime prevention strategies, community outreach programs, and available resources. Increased awareness will lead to a better understanding of the challenges faced by the police and help manage public expectations.
Addressing public concerns: The conference will provide an opportunity for the police to directly address public concerns and grievances. It will allow for open dialogue, where attendees can express their questions, suggestions, and complaints. This will help the police gain valuable feedback and insights, enabling them to improve their services and operations.
Professional development: The conference will also offer training and development opportunities for police officers as they engage in panel discussions that will enhance their skills in public relations, community engagement, crisis management, and other relevant areas. This will strengthen their ability to serve the public effectively.
Media engagement: The conference will also facilitate direct interaction between the police force and media professionals. This will enable the police to share accurate information, respond to media inquiries, and establish strong working relationships. Positive media coverage from the conference will help shape public opinion and improve the image of the police force.
The 5-day event, which brings together police spokespersons from the 17 Police Zonal Commands, 36 State Commands, and the FCT, will help to bridge the gap between the police and the public, leading to improved communication, strengthened relationships, increased public awareness, and professional development for the police force.
The event put together by the Force Public Relations Office, Force Headquarters, Abuja, in collaboration with the UN, CLEEN Foundation, NIPR, and other relevant bodies has come to stay and has played significant roles in the image of the Nigeria Police.
I hope that these conferences and seminars will be sustained as Uyo, Akwa Ibom, welcomes police spokespersons from the 17 Police Zonal Commands, 36 State Commands, and the FCT.
Adewole Kehinde is the publisher of Swift Reporters and can be reached at 08166240846. E-mail: kennyadewole@gmail.com
