By George Ozalla
The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Ridwan Disu, on Saturday commended journalists in the Federal Capital Territory for their role in informing the public and contributing to national development, while calling for stronger collaboration between the police and the media.
Disu made the remarks while addressing the congress of the Nigeria Union of Journalists FCT Council in Abuja, where he described his relationship with journalists as one built on mutual respect and professionalism.
The police chief said the media occupies a vital position in society and should be treated with the dignity accorded to professionals. He noted that journalists should never be regarded or treated as beggars but as partners in the collective task of nation building.
Disu said he had maintained a respectful and mutually beneficial relationship with journalists over the years, stressing that the work of the media in informing the public and shaping national discourse remains essential to democratic governance.
He emphasised the need for closer cooperation between the police and journalists, noting that effective communication between both institutions would strengthen public trust and enhance the flow of accurate information on security matters.
The Inspector-General also urged police officers and journalists to always conduct themselves responsibly in the discharge of their duties, adding that professionalism and good conduct leave lasting impressions on society.
In her response, the Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Grace Ike, congratulated Disu on his appointment and described him as a longstanding friend of the media.
Ike expressed confidence in the leadership of the new police chief and assured him of the readiness of the council to work with the police in promoting objective and responsible reportage of security issues.
She also disclosed that the Inspector-General would be invited as a special guest to the council’s 2026 Press Week celebration, while reaffirming the commitment of the NUJ FCT Council to responsible journalism and initiatives that strengthen security and governance in the Federal Capital Territory.
