Odita Sunday 
By Odita Sunday
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, has called for a stronger partnership between the Nigeria Police Force and the media to confront Nigeria’s worsening security challenges.
Disu made the call while speaking as Guest Speaker at the launch of The Vanguard Chronology: 40 Years of Nigeria’s Leading Tabloid in Lagos, where he said terrorism, kidnapping, banditry, cybercrime and attacks on critical infrastructure could not be tackled by security agencies alone.
The IGP described the media as a critical component of the national security ecosystem, noting that journalists play important roles in disseminating verified information, providing early warning on emerging threats, countering rumours and strengthening public confidence in security institutions.
He, however, warned that misinformation had become a serious security threat, with false reports and misleading videos capable of triggering panic and violence within minutes.
According to him, the response to misinformation should be credible and timely communication as well as responsible journalism, rather than censorship.
Disu urged journalists to balance the responsibility of truth-telling with professional judgement when reporting sensitive operational details, stressing that the Police also had a responsibility to earn the trust of the media.
He said the Force must provide accurate information, respond promptly to enquiries, correct falsehoods and respect press freedom.
The IGP proposed a structured framework for stronger Police-media collaboration, including regular briefings with editors, specialised training for journalists covering conflict and security issues, rapid fact-checking channels and deeper engagement with community media.
The event also celebrated four decades of Vanguard Newspapers and its founder, Mr Sam Amuka, who clocked 91 in June.
Disu commended Vanguard for its contribution to public discourse and for nurturing generations of journalists over the past 40 years.
He stressed that defeating insecurity required a collective effort involving government, security agencies, communities and the media.
“The media has the responsibility to inform, educate, scrutinise and help society navigate difficult times without amplifying fear, hatred or falsehood,” Disu said.
He also urged journalists to highlight stories of resilience and recovery, calling on all stakeholders to build a partnership founded on truth, professionalism, mutual respect and commitment to the national interest.
About the Author
