As the 2025 Conference of Police Public Relations Officers (PPROs) opens under the leadership of the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, PhD, NPM, many Nigerians are watching with renewed hope. This annual gathering comes at a time when the Nigerian Police Force faces difficult questions about its public image, internal culture, and relationship with the citizens it serves. If ever there was a moment that demanded honesty, introspection, and meaningful reform, it is now.
In today’s digital age, misinformation spreads faster than truth. Old videos are edited and recirculated as new incidents, going viral within minutes. Unfortunately, the Police have suffered more reputational damage from such manipulations than any other institution in Nigeria. Each misleading clip deepens public mistrust, overshadowing the genuine sacrifices made by officers serving with dignity. Yet Nigerians also know that not all negative perceptions come from social media; many arise from daily encounters with officers.
Citizens speak of rude exchanges at checkpoints, intimidation disguised as routine checks, needless delays, and interactions that leave them anxious instead of protected. These are everyday experiences for many. Equally troubling is the deteriorating appearance of some officers—faded or tattered uniforms that undermine the dignity and professionalism expected of a national Police Force. A uniform should inspire confidence, not doubt.
Even more disturbing is the sight of officers openly soliciting money, sometimes while armed. This practice erodes public trust, embarrasses the Force, and makes citizens feel vulnerable. While issues of welfare are real, begging in uniform must never become a norm.
This is why the 2025 PPROs Conference is so significant. Police Public Relations is not about covering up wrongdoing or justifying unacceptable behaviour. It is about acknowledging shortcomings, correcting misinformation, and demonstrating a genuine commitment to improvement. A modern Police Force must respond swiftly to misinformation, communicate transparently, and engage constructively with the public. Silence or delayed responses only deepen false narratives.
Beyond communication, the Force must address internal issues that weaken public trust. Officers require continuous training on ethics, conduct, and community relations. Uniform standards must be strictly enforced. Misconduct must attract real consequences, while welfare issues must be resolved to reduce desperation that fuels unprofessional behaviour. Nigerians are not demanding perfection—only sincerity and visible improvement.
This moment also highlights the professionalism of the Force’s spokespersons, particularly the widely recognized face of the Police in Nigeria, Mr. Benjamin Hundeyin, and his colleagues across all states. Nigerians see this conference as a test of their readiness and integrity. The public expects PPROs to bridge the gap between citizens and the Police, communicate truthfully, and ensure that resolutions from this gathering translate into real change—not mere speeches.
As Nigerians in the diaspora travel home for the festive season, many hope to meet officers who are well-presented, approachable, intelligent, and helpful. These are not extravagant expectations—they are basic standards of modern policing worldwide. The Nigerian Police can meet them with discipline, sincerity, and a genuine desire to reform.
The 2025 conference presents an opportunity for a reset. If its discussions lead to real action—better behaviour on the streets, stronger discipline, improved communication, and more humane policing—the Force can begin to rebuild the trust it has lost. Nigerians want to be proud of their Police again. They want to believe in a uniform that represents protection, service, and integrity.
The question now is whether Police leadership and its spokespersons will seize this moment or allow another year to pass with the same unresolved issues. For the sake of the Force and the nation it serves, this opportunity must not be wasted.
Published by:
Ezenwa Opara, MCIPR, ANIPR
Public Relations and Strategic Communication Expert
Email: Ezenwa.opara@gmail.com
