The Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu, has launched a nationwide advocacy and sensitisation campaign aimed at curbing cultism, drug abuse, violent crimes and other social vices among Nigerian youths.
The initiative, unveiled on Sunday under the Police Campaign Against Cultism and Other Vices (POCACOV), is designed to strengthen community policing through sustained engagement with schools, religious institutions, traditional leaders and other stakeholders across the country.
According to the Nigeria Police Force, the campaign seeks to discourage criminal behaviour among young people by promoting positive values, responsible citizenship and constructive community participation.
The Force described POCACOV as its flagship community policing initiative, noting that it focuses on addressing the underlying causes of youth involvement in crime through advocacy, mentorship and strategic partnerships rather than relying solely on arrests and prosecution.
It explained that the programme is intended to shield young Nigerians from criminal influences by creating opportunities for meaningful engagement while encouraging them to embrace lawful and productive lifestyles.
The police said the campaign would be implemented in collaboration with educational institutions, traditional rulers, faith-based organisations, civil society groups and other critical stakeholders to build a united front against cultism, substance abuse and other forms of social deviance.
The Force also reaffirmed that crime prevention through public enlightenment and active community participation remains a central pillar of its policing strategy, adding that the nationwide sensitisation drive would further strengthen efforts to build safer communities across Nigeria.
In a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Anietie Iniedu, the Nigeria Police Force reiterated its commitment to preventive policing strategies that enhance public safety and boost confidence in law enforcement.
Iniedu said the nationwide campaign reflects the commitment of the IGP to proactive policing, youth development and community-based initiatives aimed at reducing crime and improving national security.
