By Abubakar Rabilu, Gombe
The Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) in Gombe State has applauded the reform initiatives introduced by the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), describing them as critical steps toward strengthening community policing, deepening public trust, and enhancing security across the country.
The State Chairman of the PCRC, Alhaji Garba Muhammad Ubale, gave the commendation during a community engagement programme attended by the Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) in charge of the North-East, Zachariah Fera Achinyan, alongside security stakeholders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community representatives in Gombe.
Ubale said the reforms have demonstrated the commitment of the current police leadership to building stronger partnerships between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.
“We are delighted to welcome the DIG to Gombe State. His visit reflects the determination of the Nigeria Police Force to engage directly with communities and strengthen collaboration in addressing security challenges,” he said.
He noted that Gombe State has continued to enjoy relative peace due to sustained cooperation among security agencies, traditional institutions, religious leaders, youth groups, and other stakeholders.
According to him, effective security can only be achieved through collective responsibility, urging residents to support law enforcement agencies with timely and credible information capable of preventing crime and improving public safety.
The PCRC chairman also commended Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya for prioritising security and providing the necessary support to security agencies operating in the state.
He said the governor’s efforts have contributed significantly to maintaining peace and stability in Gombe, while congratulating him on his recent recognition for promoting security and creating a safe environment for residents.
Ubale further praised the National Chairman of the PCRC, Alhaji Mogaji Ibrahim Olaniyan, for his leadership and contributions to community development, good governance, and security enhancement across the country.
He equally lauded the Commissioner of Police in Gombe State, CP Usman Ahmed Chosu, for promoting community-based policing and strengthening public confidence in the police through regular engagement with communities and stakeholders.
The PCRC chairman reaffirmed the committee’s commitment to supporting initiatives that promote peaceful coexistence, strengthen security, and foster closer collaboration between the police and the public.
Speaking earlier, DIG Zachariah Fera Achinyan stressed the need for stronger cooperation between the police and members of the public, noting that effective policing cannot be achieved without active community participation.
He urged residents to provide useful and reliable information to security agencies, describing intelligence supplied by members of the public as one of the most effective tools in combating crime and criminality.
The DIG explained that his visit to Gombe was part of a broader engagement across the North-East aimed at assessing policing strategies, strengthening community relations, and identifying practical measures to improve security and public safety in the region.
Stakeholders at the meeting reaffirmed their support for security agencies and called for sustained dialogue and regular engagements between the police and communities to address emerging security concerns and consolidate peace across the North-East.
