The strained relationship between young people and law enforcement agencies came under scrutiny on Thursday, September 24, 2026, as youths, police officers and other security agencies openly addressed concerns over negative profiling, selective stop-and-search, phone seizures and mutual suspicion at the maiden Anambra State Police-Youth Crime Prevention Dialogue.
Held at the Maduako Mini Auditorium of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Awka, the dialogue brought together representatives of the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Correctional Service, NDLEA, FRSC, academics and student leaders to explore practical ways of strengthening police-youth relations and improving crime prevention in Anambra State.
The most candid exchanges came from student leaders, who questioned security officials on issues including alleged selective stop-and-search practices, phone seizures and the conduct of some security personnel. The questions highlighted the depth of mistrust between young people and law enforcement agencies and the need for sustained engagement.
Welcoming participants, Founder and Executive Director of the African Youth Initiative on Crime Prevention (AYICRIP), Ambassador Chris Ibe, described the programme as an important milestone in efforts to bridge the gap between security agencies and citizens, particularly young people.
Ibe said persistent mistrust had contributed to negative profiling, mutual suspicion and allegations of police brutality, stressing that a breakdown in communication between youths and security agencies could create opportunities for criminal elements.
He encouraged young people to use the platform to share their experiences and contribute practical solutions towards building stronger police-community relationships.
Representing the Vice-Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Administration, Professor Hilda Ewosiida Osisioma, welcomed the initiative and urged stakeholders to ensure that the outcomes of the dialogue extended beyond the auditorium and translated into meaningful action.
Representing the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, Deputy Commissioner of Police, Administration, Ngozi Ezeabata, acknowledged the challenges surrounding public confidence in the police. She also noted that police officers themselves sometimes experience negative perceptions, while stressing the importance of rebuilding trust between law enforcement and citizens.
Representatives of the Nigeria Immigration Service, Nigeria Correctional Service, NDLEA and FRSC also contributed to the discussions, calling for continuous engagement, improved communication, responsible conduct by young people and stronger collaboration among stakeholders.
Delivering the keynote address, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Professor Michael Ezenwa, advocated less confrontational approaches in engagements between security personnel and youths, emphasizing communication, understanding and mutual respect.
The dialogue further highlighted the need for improved government support for security agencies, including operational resources and continuous training, as well as structured platforms for regular police-youth engagement and meaningful employment opportunities for young people.
At the centre of the discussions was a shared recognition that crime prevention is a collective responsibility. While security agencies have a critical role to play, communities, young people, institutions and government must also contribute to creating a safer environment.
The maiden Anambra State Police-Youth Crime Prevention Dialogue provided a valuable platform for both sides to confront difficult questions openly.
The next challenge is to ensure that the concerns raised are followed by clearer engagement, greater accountability, sustained dialogue and practical measures capable of transforming mistrust into cooperation.
The event ended with presentation of awards.
