The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, has pledged to support community policing initiatives in Abuja while calling for a broader and more coordinated response to the growing menace of “one-chance” robberies across the Federal Capital Territory.
Speaking during the operational tour of the FCT Police Command by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police in charge of Training and Development, DIG Isyaku Mohammed, the Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, said the media remains a critical partner in strengthening public safety and building trust between citizens and law enforcement agencies.
She said journalists would continue to amplify verified information, promote public awareness on safety measures, and highlight successful police operations aimed at restoring confidence in security institutions.
“We stand ready to support community policing initiatives that bring police and citizens together,” Mrs Ike said.
“Responsible, factual reporting helps build trust, encourages victims to report crimes, and amplifies preventive messages that save lives.”
She described the rise in one-chance robberies as a major security concern in Abuja, noting that women and young commuters are among the most affected victims.
According to her, many incidents go unreported because victims often feel helpless or lack confidence in the system, a situation she said allows criminals to continue operating unchecked.
Mrs Ike urged authorities to adopt a holistic strategy that includes stronger patrols, intelligence-led policing, improved public transport safety, community engagement, victim support services, and sustained public awareness campaigns.
She also called for closer collaboration between journalists and security agencies, stressing that timely access to verified information would help counter misinformation and strengthen public confidence in policing efforts.
“We need sustained collaboration across government agencies, transport unions, community leaders and the media to close the gaps that enable these crimes,” she said.
The NUJ chairman further commended the FCT Police Command for its ongoing modernization efforts and praised its leadership and Public Relations Office for maintaining a positive working relationship with the media.
She reaffirmed the council’s commitment to balanced and accountable reporting while advocating regular engagement and capacity-building programmes between journalists and police officers to improve crime reporting and coordinated responses to security challenges.
Mrs Ike also welcomed the police leadership’s operational visit to the FCT, describing it as evidence of the commitment of senior officers to addressing security realities on the ground.
