The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has emphasised the importance of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) fully adopting the National Values Charter.
He stated that its internalization would significantly improve the police’s public image and public perception.
Idris made the call on Monday in Asaba, Delta State, at a capacity-building workshop for Police Public Relations Officers, themed “Strengthening Nigeria Police Force Oversight and Responsibility.”
Represented by the Director General of Voice of Nigeria, Mallam Baba-Ndace, the minister underscored the need for the police to align its activities with the National Values Charter, which he described as crucial for national cohesion, social advancement, and the promotion of a strong sense of nationalism.
“The National Values Charter is designed to define our identity as Nigerians and to uphold the ideals that bind us together in our collective aspirations,” Idris said. “By embracing and internalizing its principles, the Nigeria Police can play a pivotal role in fostering a new narrative for the country. The Police are at the forefront of shaping public perception, both locally and internationally.”
Idris also highlighted the significant role of the NPF as the primary security agency with direct interaction with citizens.
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He noted that the police’s duties extend beyond law enforcement to include safeguarding the lives, dignity, liberty, and property of Nigerians.
This, he stressed, necessitates a high level of accountability, both to the Nigerian Constitution and the citizens, with whom the police share a binding social contract.
The minister further pointed out the historical relationship between the police and the Nigerian public, citing the 1930 merger that formed the modern NPF.
He emphasised that the force’s responsibility to maintain public safety and order has always been vital to Nigeria’s stability.
Idris acknowledged the complexities faced by the police in balancing the protection of civil rights while maintaining law and order, adding that these challenges have led to a lack of trust between the police and the public.
“Public trust remains the most pressing challenge facing the Nigerian Police today,” he said. “Policing cannot be effective without the cooperation of the public, and this trust is essential for ensuring effective service delivery.”
The minister recognised the struggles the police face in their relationship with the public, citing internal and external factors that complicate their duties.
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He noted the perception gap between the government and citizens and the broader climate of trust deficit in the country.
However, he stressed that public relations play a crucial role in reshaping the police’s reputation, promoting oversight, and ensuring accountability to the Nigerian people.
Idris expressed his appreciation for the police’s alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s vision for improving national security and service delivery.
The Minister’s address aimed to reinforce the necessity of integrating national values into policing, stressing that such alignment will strengthen public trust and enhance the image of the police.
