The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting community policing efforts in Abuja, pledging to leverage the media as a strategic tool for public safety awareness and crime prevention.

Chairman of the council, Grace Ike, made the commitment during an operational visit to the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Training and Development, Isyaku Mohammed.

Ike said the media would continue to work closely with law enforcement agencies by disseminating verified information, educating residents on security precautions, and spotlighting successful policing efforts aimed at strengthening public trust.

“We stand ready to support community policing initiatives that bring police and citizens together. Responsible and factual reporting builds trust, encourages victims to report crimes, and amplifies preventive messages that can save lives,” she said.

While commending ongoing security efforts, Ike expressed concern over the growing incidence of “one-chance” robberies in Abuja, describing the trend as a major security challenge confronting residents, particularly women and young commuters.

The criminals, she noted, often disguise themselves as commercial drivers or passengers, targeting unsuspecting victims in both public and private vehicles.

According to her, many victims fail to report such incidents due to fear, hopelessness, or a lack of confidence in the system, a situation that emboldens perpetrators and allows the crime to flourish.

To address the menace, Ike advocated a comprehensive strategy that combines enhanced police patrols, intelligence-driven operations, safer public transportation systems, community participation, victim support mechanisms, and sustained public awareness campaigns.

She also urged the police leadership to strengthen collaboration with journalists, describing the media as a critical partner in ensuring the timely dissemination of verified information, combating misinformation, and deepening public confidence in security institutions.

The NUJ chairman further applauded the FCT Police Command’s modernization efforts and praised its leadership, particularly the Police Public Relations Office, for maintaining a constructive relationship with the media.

She pledged that the union would continue to uphold balanced and responsible journalism that highlights the achievements of security agencies while also holding public institutions accountable to the rule of law.

Ike additionally called for regular capacity-building programmes and sustained dialogue between journalists and law enforcement officers to enhance mutual understanding and improve coordinated responses to emerging security threats.

“We need sustained collaboration among government agencies, transport unions, community leaders, and the media to close the gaps that enable these crimes to thrive,” she said.

She described the operational tour by the police high command as a demonstration of the leadership’s commitment to understanding security realities on the ground and responding effectively to them.

The NUJ chairman concluded by wishing the Deputy Inspector-General, the Commissioner of Police, and other officers continued success and safety in the discharge of their duties.