The commissioner of police in Anambra, Ikioye Orutugu, has described sports as a powerful tool for steering youths away from crime and channeling their energy into positive pursuits.

Mr Orutugu made this remark when leaders of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Anambra chapter, paid him a courtesy visit in Awka on Tuesday.

The SWAN delegation, led by its chairman, Chimezie Anaso, and secretary, Uche Ndeke, presented the police chief with a customised jersey and formally invited him to the forthcoming End-of-Year SWAN Week scheduled for December 11 and 12 in Awka, the state capital.

Expressing appreciation for the gesture, Mr Orutugu commended SWAN for recognising the efforts of the Anambra police command in promoting a safe and secure environment.

He said sports remained one of the most effective platforms for keeping youths away from crime, cultism, drug abuse and other social vices.

“I want to assure you that the police under my watch will continue to provide maximum security to ensure that sports and other legitimate activities thrive without fear in Anambra.

“A crime-free society is essential for sustainable sports development. I accept this gift and assure you of my readiness to work with SWAN because there is much we can achieve through sports,” he said.

Earlier, Mr Anaso praised the commissioner’s policing approach since assuming office, noting that it had contributed to a reduction in crime across the state.

He also lauded the command’s community engagement strategy and openness to collaboration, which he said had restored public confidence and encouraged greater youth participation in sports.

“I appreciate the Anambra police command for its efforts so far and encourage you to continue protecting sportsmen and women across the state and to adopt sports as part of your policing strategy,” he said.

(NAN)