The Nigeria Police Force, through the Police Campaign Against Cultism & Other Vices (POCACOV), officially inaugurated an anti-crime outreach program on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, at the Jiwa Town Hall in Jiwa Town, Abuja. The event, which gathered over 500 participants including parents, local leaders, and youth representatives, aimed to enhance community-based anti-crime policing and foster a collaborative approach to combating social issues affecting the youth.

Themed “Breaking the Circle: Parental Responsibility in Preventing Youth Crime,” the outreach focused on addressing critical issues such as cultism, drug misuse, and other criminal behaviors threatening the well-being of young people. The program provided a platform for open dialogue, allowing stakeholders to discuss actionable strategies for crime prevention and youth empowerment.

In addition to the discussions, the event also featured the introduction of youth development programs and skill acquisition initiatives designed to offer alternatives to criminal activities and promote self-sufficiency among the youth. Various palliative items, including foodstuffs, educational kits, clothing, and household goods, were distributed to community members as part of the outreach effort.

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), who was represented at the event, emphasized the importance of community policing and parental involvement in preventing youth crime. The IGP stressed that effective crime prevention requires a collective effort, where communities play an active role in safeguarding their environment. By involving parents, local leaders, and youth in proactive discussions and initiatives, the police aim to create a safer, more supportive community, ultimately contributing to the broader goal of a crime-free society.

ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, Force Public Relations Officer, reiterated the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to ensuring the safety and well-being of every citizen. The event highlighted the growing importance of community-driven approaches to law enforcement, with an emphasis on strengthening relationships between the police and local communities.

The anti-crime outreach program is part of the Nigeria Police’s continued efforts to engage with communities and build stronger partnerships in the fight against crime.