The National Chairman of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), Alhaji Mogaji Ibraheem Olaniyan, has reaffirmed the committee’s unwavering partnership with the media, describing journalists as “indispensable allies in nation-building and police accountability.”
Olaniyan made the remark when he received executive members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council, led by its Chairman, Ms Grace Ike, on a familiarisation visit to the PCRC National Secretariat in Abuja.
He emphasised that the PCRC upholds competence and service above gender in leadership, noting that “what a man can do, a woman can do even better.” According to him, leadership within the committee is defined by merit, integrity, and commitment to service.
Highlighting the committee’s strides since his assumption of office on November 27, Olaniyan disclosed that the PCRC has successfully reclaimed land jointly owned by the Nigeria Police, the Ministry of Police Affairs, and the PCRC. He said plans were already underway to develop the property in partnership with reputable developers.
He also mentioned the implementation of welfare initiatives, including scholarship programs for children of police officers, as part of ongoing efforts to support the Nigeria Police Force.
Reaffirming PCRC’s bond with the media, Olaniyan described journalists and police officers as “two groups that enjoy unrestricted access to my office,” stressing their shared responsibility in promoting transparency, accountability, and public enlightenment.
He further pledged to help the NUJ FCT Council establish strategic collaborations with private sector players and philanthropists committed to police welfare and national development.
On gender inclusion, the PCRC National Chairman expressed concern over what he described as the “systemic neglect of retired female police officers in post-service appointments,” despite their experience and qualifications.
Olaniyan noted that while many retired male police officers are regularly appointed as security advisers, consultants, or heads of security in both government and private institutions, their female counterparts are often overlooked.
“Many states readily appoint retired male officers as security advisers or heads of regional security outfits, while equally qualified female officers are rarely considered for similar roles,” he said.
“This trend sends a discouraging signal to serving female officers and undermines ongoing efforts to promote gender equity within the Nigeria Police and the wider security architecture.”
He therefore urged the NUJ FCT Council Chairman to leverage her leadership role and media influence to drive advocacy and bring sustained public attention to the issue.
According to him, the media has a vital role in reshaping perceptions and influencing policies that ensure equal opportunities for women in security and governance.
Speaking on media ethics, Olaniyan urged journalists to maintain professionalism and balance when reporting security matters, warning against one-sided narratives that could damage national institutions.
“The police are not perfect, but they remain a critical pillar of national security and deserve fair and responsible coverage,” he said.
Olaniyan assured the NUJ delegation of the PCRC’s continuous support, describing the relationship between both bodies as a “family bond” built on trust, collaboration, and a shared vision for national development.
In her remarks, NUJ FCT Council Chairman, Ms Grace Ike, commended Olaniyan for his visible humanitarian efforts, describing him as “a man of the people” whose activities continue to attract public goodwill.
She said the visit marked the beginning of a stronger partnership between the NUJ FCT and the PCRC in promoting community relations, national unity, and positive police-media engagement.
“As the umbrella body for all media organizations in Abuja, we remain committed to objective, balanced, and responsible reporting,” Ike said.
“We also pledge to amplify PCRC activities across our network of over 700 journalists.”
The NUJ chair also highlighted challenges facing journalists in the FCT, including the poor state of the NUJ Secretariat and the absence of a functional congress hall. She appealed for support to complete the long-abandoned building project and called for collaboration on affordable housing for journalists, similar to schemes in Lagos.
“The media’s role in community relations makes the NUJ a natural partner of the PCRC,” Ike added. “We will continue to report the truth while supporting institutions that work for national stability.”
