Anambra Commissioner of Police, CP Ikioye Orutugu, has emphasized the role of sports as an effective tool for diverting youths from criminal activities and engaging them in productive endeavors.
Mr Orutugu said this when the leadership of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Anambra Chapter, paid him a courtesy visit in Awka.
The SWAN leadership led Chimezie Anaso and Uche Ndeke, the Chairman and Secretary respectively presented the CP with a customised jersey and formally invited him to the association’s forthcoming End of Year SWAN Week scheduled for Dec. 11 and Dec.12 in Awka.
Mr Orutugu who expressed delight at the gift of a branded jersey commended SWAN for recognising the efforts of the Command towards creating a safe environment for people of Anambra.
He said sports remained one of the most effective ways of taking youths away from crime, cultism, drug abuse and other social vices which had plagued many communities.
“I want to assure you that the Police under my watch will continue to provide maximum security so that sports and other legitimate activities can thrive without fear in Anambra.
”A crime free society is essential for sustainable sports development, so, I accept this gift and promise to work with SWAN because, there is a lot we can achieve through sports,” he said.
Earlier, Chimezie commended the Commissioner for his proactive policing style since assuming office which has led to significant reduction in crime .
The SWAN Chairman commended the community engagement approach of the Command and its openness to collaboration with stakeholders.
He said the strategy had restored public confidence and encouraged more youth participation in sporting activities.
He said the visit was in furtherance to strengthening the existing relationship between the association and the Command adding that there was a nexus between sports and security.
“I want to appreciate the Anambra Police Command under your watch and I want to encourage you not only to protect sportsmen and women everywhere in the state but also adopt sports as a policing strategy,” he said.
