By peterside Rejoice Eneky
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Police Command in collaboration with the GS Foundation has organised a community-focused football tournament tagged “Play for Trust” to strengthen police-community relations and promote mutual understanding.
The event, which took place on Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Old Parade Ground, Area 10, Garki, Abuja, brought together youths from Garki and police officers, who played in mixed teams in the spirit of sportsmanship, dialogue, and partnership.
Supported by the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the tournament featured friendly matches aimed at building unity, trust, and cooperation between law enforcement agencies and members of the community.
Speaking during the event, the Inspector General of Police (IGP), who was represented by the Assistant Inspector General of Police in charge of Community Policing, Research and Planning, AIG Gumel Useini, commended the initiative, noting that community-driven programmes such as this reduce tension, strengthen mutual respect, and foster safer neighbourhoods.
He said: “Community-oriented policing is a collective responsibility. This initiative provides an informal platform for engagement, helping the Police and the people work together in the fight against crime.”
The Command pledged to work with the GS Foundation and other stakeholders to sustain such activities across the FCT as part of broader efforts to build trust and enhance security.
The Police also urged residents to continue to support security efforts by reporting suspicious activities through its emergency hotlines: 08061581938, 08032003913 and CRU: 08107314192.
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