The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun’s successor, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening collaboration between the police and communities across Nigeria.

He made this known while receiving a delegation from the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) at the Force Headquarters in Abuja.

The delegation was led by the PCRC National Chairman, Alhaji Mogaji Ibraheem Olaniyan, alongside members of its National Executive Committee and regional representatives.

PCRC pledges support to new police leadership

Speaking during the visit, Mr Olaniyan congratulated Mr Disu on his appointment and pledged continued support for the Nigeria Police Force.

“We reaffirm our loyalty and steadfast support for the Nigeria Police Force,” he said.

He also praised the Inspector-General for recognising the PCRC’s role in strengthening national security through community engagement.

‘Use PCRC platform responsibly’ – IGP warns

In response, Mr Disu thanked the committee for its continued backing and called for stronger accountability within the PCRC.

“The Force will continue to cooperate fully with the PCRC,” he said.

The police chief urged members to ensure that PCRC identification is used strictly for legitimate purposes, particularly intelligence gathering.

“Members must remain exemplary citizens to preserve the integrity of this partnership,” he added.

Why it matters

The PCRC serves as a bridge between citizens and the police, helping to build trust, gather intelligence, and improve public safety.

Security experts say stronger police-community relations are critical in tackling rising insecurity, especially in urban and rural areas where trust deficits often hinder policing efforts.

In recent years, Nigeria has faced challenges ranging from armed robbery and kidnapping to communal clashes, making collaboration between law enforcement and civilians increasingly important.

Industry and public perspective

Analysts note that effective community policing can lead to faster intelligence sharing and crime prevention.

However, concerns remain about the misuse of unofficial security identifiers and the need for stricter oversight — an issue the Inspector-General directly addressed during the meeting.

What’s next

The Nigeria Police Force is expected to deepen engagement with community stakeholders nationwide, with the PCRC playing a central role in grassroots intelligence and public trust-building initiatives.

Observers say the success of this partnership will depend on transparency, accountability, and consistent engagement at all levels.

The Lagos Forward Network (LFN) has appointed Oreoluwa Afolayan as its new Director General, marking what the group describes as a “strategic and timely” leadership transition.

The announcement was made during a press briefing in Lagos, attended by stakeholders from government, business and development sectors.

A leader for a new phase

LFN says Mr Afolayan brings a mix of public sector experience and private sector expertise to the role.

He previously served as Special Assistant to the Governor of Lagos State, where he worked on governance and policy coordination.

He has also completed leadership programmes at institutions including the African Leadership Institute West Africa, the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI), and the Lagos Business School.

Outside government, he works in the financial services sector, focusing on business growth, customer acquisition and product expansion.

“A strategic and timely appointment”

Speaking at the event, LFN Co-Convenor Toluwase Olaniyan said the decision reflects the organisation’s future ambitions.

“Ore Afolayan represents a new generation of leadership defined by clarity, competence and execution. His experience across policy, enterprise and leadership development positions the Lagos Forward Network to build a credible, impactful and future-oriented platform.”

What his role will involve

As Director General, Mr Afolayan will oversee the expansion of LFN’s activities across the state.

His responsibilities include building networks across all local government areas, engaging stakeholders across political and economic sectors, and driving policy discussions.

He is also expected to lead community-focused programmes aimed at economic empowerment and development.

Why it matters

The appointment comes at a time when civic platforms are playing a growing role in shaping governance conversations in Lagos.

LFN says it aims to bridge the gap between policymakers and citizens, particularly in areas such as economic opportunity, leadership development and inclusive growth.

Analysts say leadership changes in such organisations can influence how effectively they mobilise stakeholders and drive policy engagement at the state level.

A platform for progress

LFN describes itself as a coalition of professionals, community leaders and institutions working to support long-term development in Lagos State.

The organisation says its work is built around three core principles: continuity, competence and inclusive growth.

What’s next

With Mr Afolayan’s appointment, the network says it is entering a phase of “structured growth and strategic coordination”.

It plans to scale its outreach, deepen stakeholder engagement and expand its influence in policy and development conversations across Lagos.

The Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), Oyo/Osun Chapter, has launched a series of humanitarian visits to support vulnerable children and widows, highlighting its commitment to social welfare.

Led by Chairperson Mrs. Omowunmi Adewole, the association visited the Ibadan Motherless Babies Home and the House of Providence Special School for Children with Intellectual Disability, bringing gifts and engaging personally with children in care.

“Every child deserves an opportunity to grow, thrive, and feel valued,” Mrs. Adewole said. “Our outreach reinforces the importance of love, care, and inclusion for all children, especially those in motherless homes or with special needs.”

Recognizing Leadership and Dedication

Mrs. Adewole expressed gratitude to Dr. Mrs. Adeniyi Kikelomo, the National President of COWA, for her guidance and leadership, which she said continues to inspire members nationwide.

She also commended the caregivers and management of both institutions, describing their work as “impactful and deserving of recognition.”

Extending Support to Widows

In addition to supporting children, COWA reached out to widows of Customs officers, presenting items to assist them and reaffirming the association’s commitment to the welfare of officers’ families.

“Even small acts of kindness can create lasting hope and positive change,” Mrs. Adewole added. “COWA remains committed to making meaningful contributions to society.”

Why It Matters

COWA’s outreach underscores the role of professional associations in complementing government welfare efforts. By supporting children and widows, the association fosters inclusion, social solidarity, and community development—values aligned with the principles of the Nigeria Customs Service.