ABUJA — The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu has called for a shift in Police–youth relations built on partnership, prevention, dialogue and shared responsibility, saying young Nigerians must be involved in building safer communities. Speaking at the National Youth Leadership and Security Dialogue organized by the Nigeria Police Force to mark International Youth Day 2026 under the theme “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations,” the IGP said engagement should go beyond reacting to crime or dealing with youths only after they come into conflict with the law. He urged the Force to work with young people to prevent threats before they occur.
The IGP outlined key areas for collaboration: building safer communities, preventing violence, combating cybercrime, promoting responsible digital citizenship, protecting vulnerable persons, and strengthening peaceful democratic participation. He noted that youths wield significant influence in schools, workplaces and online spaces, and have the capacity to mobilize communities, create businesses, develop technology and shape public policy. “You can choose to be used, or you can choose to lead,” Disu said, stressing that sustainable security requires trust and continuous platforms for youths to express concerns and contribute solutions.
With the 2027 electoral cycle approaching, the Inspector-General said the partnership is critical to protect young Nigerians from recruitment into political violence while encouraging lawful democratic participation. He called on youths to see themselves not as spectators but as active stakeholders in national security. “The future of Nigeria is a shared project. The youth are not merely waiting to inherit Nigeria. They are helping to secure and build it today,” he stated. The Nigeria Police Force reaffirmed its commitment to a Police–youth relationship anchored on dialogue, mutual respect, prevention and shared responsibility.
