Tinubu called for stronger police-citizen partnerships to tackle insecurity

President Bola Tinubu has called on Nigerians to actively support security agencies, stressing that national safety depends on cooperation between citizens and law enforcement.

Speaking through Vice President Kashim Shettima at the 2026 National Police Day Grand Parade in Abuja, the President said effective policing cannot be achieved without public collaboration.

“The security of a country cannot depend on uniforms alone. I call on all Nigerians, community leaders, traditional institutions, religious leaders, civil society and the private sector to cooperate with the police and other security agencies,” he said.

He warned that mistrust between the public and security agencies could exacerbate insecurity across the country.

“When citizens and law enforcement stand on opposite sides of all suspicion, insecurity thrives.

“Therefore, as a necessity of democracy, the police must remain connected to the community, pay attention to the interests of the community, respect the dignity of the community, and be responsive to the needs of the community,” he said.

The President stressed the need for a change in public perception, and urged Nigerians to view the police as partners in maintaining peace.

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“And society in turn must see the police not as a distant force, but as partners in the collective task of maintaining peace,” Tinubu said.

Speaking to the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force, Tinubu urged continued commitment to reform, discipline and professionalism.

“To the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force, I ask you to remain steadfast in your commitment to reform for every officer here today. I ask you to hold yourself to the highest standards of integrity, discipline and service.

“Let your behavior reflect the honor of the uniform you wear, let your actions inspire self-confidence, let your service bring pride to the nation,” he added.

He expressed optimism that continued reforms would help Nigeria overcome its security challenges.

“The road ahead may still be long, but this nation will not decline. As long as the task remains answered when there is danger, and as long as we continue to choose reform… Nigeria will continue to win,” he said.

The President also described National Police Day as a reaffirmation of the country’s commitment to building a professional and accountable police force.

Meanwhile, the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, warned officers against committing violations and stressed that accountability would be strictly enforced.

“The Nigerian Police Force must rise up. We must address indiscipline. We must address abuses. We must address every act that diminishes the honor of this uniform,” he said.

“Let me emphasize: Rank will not protect wrongdoing. Uniforms will never be an excuse for abuse. Authority will never override the rule of law. There will be no sacred cows. Accountability under my leadership will be firm, fair and without exception,” added the IG.

Disu also assured officers of improved welfare and institutional support for professionalism.

“And let me say this clearly: This leadership will stand firm with every official who does the right thing. We will improve your prosperity.

“We will strengthen your capacity. We will equip you well. Because a respectable and professional police force must be built from officers who are supported, trained and treated with dignity,” he said.

Observed annually on April 7, National Police Day honors the service, sacrifice, and dedication of officers, including those who lose their lives in the line of duty.