In a bid to enhance security and foster stronger community bonds, the Edo State Police Command has taken significant steps towards establishing the “Edo State Community Safety Partnership.” On Friday, August 29, 2025, the Commissioner of Police, CP Monday Agbonika, led a strategic meeting at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy in Benin City, marking the first of many crucial discussions aimed at building a more secure environment for all residents.
This initiative seeks to bring together various sectors of the state, starting with the hospitality industry, to create a collaborative platform for tackling crime and ensuring community safety. The police have scheduled a series of meetings with different groups over the coming days, including industries, religious institutions, traditional leaders, and more. These meetings will lay the groundwork for the establishment of the Community Safety Partnership, which will meet regularly to address pressing security concerns and implement effective solutions.
CP Agbonika, in his address, highlighted the pivotal role that hoteliers and the hospitality sector play in maintaining public safety. He underscored that while modern technology, such as drones, is a valuable tool for surveillance, true success in fighting crime depends on the collaboration between the police and the community, particularly those in close contact with visitors and newcomers.
“The fight against crime cannot be won by technology alone,” Agbonika stated. “The real change happens when we work hand in hand with you the hoteliers and the broader hospitality industry who are often the first point of contact for people entering our communities.”
The meeting saw a strong turnout of hoteliers and key players from the hospitality industry, who expressed their commitment to working closely with the police. Both sides agreed that only through partnership and the sharing of vital intelligence can the state move towards a safer and more secure future for both residents and visitors.
As the discussions progressed, it became clear that the formation of the Edo State Community Safety Partnership will not only focus on crime prevention but will also offer a platform for regular dialogue between the police and various community sectors. The partnership’s aim is to build a robust informal policing system and implement sustainable solutions to security challenges.
With the hospitality industry now firmly on board, the Edo State Police Command is optimistic that this initiative will serve as a model for other regions, creating a unified approach to community policing. As the partnership moves forward, CP Agbonika reiterated the importance of public cooperation in ensuring a safe environment for all.
“We are committed to supporting businesses, fostering growth, and ensuring that everyone whether resident or visitor can feel safe and thrive in Edo State,” he concluded.
