CP Azare Lauds A’Ibom Newspaper Publishers for Supporting Security Efforts, Pledges Police Partnership for ANPA Week
By Henshaw NYONG, Uyo
The Commissioner of Police, Akwa Ibom State Command, CP Baba Mohammed Azare, fsi, has commended members of the Amalgamated Newspaper Publishers, Akwa Ibom State (ANPA), for their consistent support in promoting peace, security, and responsible reportage across the state.
CP Azare gave the commendation on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, when he received the leadership of ANPA on a courtesy visit at the Police Headquarters, Ikot Akpan Abia.
The journalist-turned-police boss, who described Akwa Ibom as one of the most peaceful states in the federation, attributed the prevailing stability to the synergy between security agencies and the media. He acknowledged the role of community-based newspapers in bridging the communication gap between the police and the public and in helping to dispel misinformation capable of causing unrest.
Azare appreciated the publishers for providing platforms for developmental reportage and fairness in coverage, stressing that the Command places high value on media collaboration in its operations. The CP encouraged the body to continue verifying sensitive security-related information before publication, noting that accuracy and balance remain central to public trust.
The Commissioner also advised the publishers to promptly reach out to the Police Command for clarifications or confirmation whenever necessary, assuring them of open communication channels and cooperation at all times.
Related: CP Azare Charges Journalists On Balanced Reportage
While pledging the Command’s support for the forthcoming ANPA Week 2025, CP Azare directed the association to formally forward its programme itinerary to facilitate adequate security coverage for all scheduled events.
Earlier, in his address, the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee (CPC) for ANPA Week 2025, Elder Patrick Albert, said the visit was to inform the Police Commissioner of the association’s forthcoming activities, scheduled to be held from Sunday, November 9, to Thursday, November 13, 2025.
He specifically commended the CP for his leadership style since assuming office in December 2024. The former two-term NUJ Chairman noted that the Commissioner’s background in mass communication and public relations has enhanced his engagement with the media and strengthened police-community relations in the state.
Elder Albert explained that ANPA Week 2025, themed “The Relevance of Newspaper Publishers in State Development: The Case of Akwa Ibom State under the ARISE Agenda”, will feature a series of events including a thanksgiving service, medical outreach, a visit to orphanages, a road walk, a novelty football match, a project inspection, and an evening with distributors and vendors, culminating in a symposium, awards, and a luncheon.
He requested the support of the Police Command for security coverage throughout the week’s activities, assuring the CP that ANPA remains committed to upholding professionalism and contributing to state development.
Highlight of the Week, according to Albert, will be the conferment of Golden Awards on the Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, PhD, and the President of the Senate, His Excellency Senator (Dr) Godswill Obot Akpabio, GCON, alongside other distinguished personalities, for their exemplary contributions to national growth.
He lauded the Police Command under CP Azare for maintaining peace and security in Akwa Ibom, noting that residents now enjoy an atmosphere conducive to business and social activities.
The visit had in attendance the Secretary of the CPC of ANPA Week, Comrade Ndifreke Harrison; the President General of ANPA, Pastor OsuiniAbasi Alfred; the Secretary, Deacon Ubong Etettor; members of the CPC; and the Police Public Relations Officer in Akwa Ibom, DSP Timfon John.
