By Nkechi Eze
The Nigeria Police Trust Fund (NPTF) has called for credible and responsible reporting, as well as stronger collaboration between the media and security agencies, to address misinformation and strengthen national security ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Executive Secretary of the Fund, Alhaji Mohammed Sheidu, made the call in his goodwill message at the 3rd Annual Conference and Awards of the Crime Correspondents Association of Nigeria (CCAN) in Abuja.
Sheidu described the conference theme, “Navigating Security Challenges in the 2027 Election: The Role of the Media in Combating Fake News,” as timely, noting that the growing spread of fake news, misinformation and disinformation posed challenges to public confidence in security institutions and national stability.
He urged journalists to uphold accuracy, verify information before publication and maintain constructive engagement with security agencies, stressing that the media had an important role to play in safeguarding democracy.
“The media must therefore remain a responsible partner in safeguarding our democracy through accurate reporting, proper verification and constructive engagements,” he said.
The NPTF Executive Secretary emphasised that national security is a collective responsibility requiring cooperation among government institutions, security agencies, the media and citizens.
He said effective policing also depended on a professional, adequately equipped and motivated workforce, reaffirming the Fund’s commitment to supporting the Nigeria Police Force through training, equipment, technology, institutional capacity development and welfare initiatives.
Sheidu further called for sustained engagement between the police and the media, anchored on mutual respect, transparency and accountability, noting that such cooperation would help build public trust and improve understanding of police operations.
He commended the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Disu, for his leadership and efforts towards strengthening relations between the police and the media.
According to him, the media had a significant responsibility in communicating police activities and helping to address negative public perceptions of the Force.
“The only way we can get to our people is that the media has to do a lot of work in getting this done,” he said.
Sheidu congratulated CCAN on the conference and urged crime correspondents to remain committed to ethical journalism and credible reporting, while working closely with security institutions to promote public safety.
He called on all stakeholders to strengthen their cooperation towards ensuring peaceful and credible elections in 2027.
