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DIASPORA NDIGBO, CRIME AND ETHNIC REORIENTATION

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BY RAY NKAMA

There has been an unsavoury international outcry against the backdrop of the release of a list of wanted criminals by the US-based Federal Bureau of Investigations in which Nigerians of Igbo extraction constituted a majority. One of the pertinent issues the saga instigates is the sad reality that Ndigbo are usually associated with the vaulting ambition to make money at all costs. Back home in Nigeria, we typify a desperate race, always in pursuit of material wealth at the expense of sound moral values. Other tribes see us as a bunch of dubious people people who have attained satanical dimensions in crimes such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, baby factory business, fakery and ritual killing. For the aforementioned reasons, there are many tribes in Nigeria who would prefer to inter-marry with eskimos rather than with Igbos. The perception of such tribes may be faulted on the pedestal of the law of hasty generalisation, yet it is a clarion call on us to watch our back while using our tongues to count our teeth.

The popular apologia that not all Igbos are criminally-minded is true but must we always be on the defensive in the courts of public opinion and perception? In spite of our famed sense of industry, creativity and persevering spirit, why must we allow ourselves to be perceived as the black sheep of Nigeria? In my cross-cultural interactions, I have heard people from other tribes say that it would be easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for an Igbo man or woman to rule Nigeria. Though everyone is entitled to his/her opinion, we allowed the wrong things to be associated with us because we have perennially refused to take systemic actions against the wrong perception other regions of Nigeria have about us. Unfortunately, this skewed perception has followed us to America, Europe and Asia.

I have always believed that Ndigbo can change the world with our ingenious spirit, yet we seem to have fallen into an eternal slumber of self-delusion, thinking that attaining greatness starts and ends with talent alone. We have not placed the right premium on attitude. We must collectively change our attitude to money and material wealth. We must not allow our egalitarian nature erode our duty of respect to the elderly.

The humble office I occupy today is the brainchild of our amiable governor, engineer David Umahi whose ultimate goal is to reorient all Ebonyi indigenes, especially youths. He has vowed to emancipate NdiEbonyi from all sorts of physical and mental slavery. This is why he is paying very serious attention to the Attitudinal Change concept. Before now, our youths were largely known for selling garri, rice and beans and for hawking goods in traffic across many states of the federation. That downgrading reputation is slowly but steadily being erased with the efforts of my humble office towards changing the warped mindset of our youths. We are making great progress in this regard and governor David Umahi who doubles as the Chairman of the Southeast Governors’ Forum has been playing a very supportive role. I call on all Southeast governors to emulate him by making the concept of Attitudinal Change an integral aspect of their governments. With the spate of negative perception the world has about the Igbos, we must do a lot to prove them wrong.

We should encourage a new generation of the Chinua Achebes, Philip Emeagwalis, Emeka Anyaokwus, Flora Nwapas, of this world. That is one of the very good ways we can shed the burdensome weight of negativity which had manacled our forward movement as a people brain and brawn.

Ray Nkama is Special Assistant to Ebonyi State Governor on Attitudinal Change and writes from Abakaliki.

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

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Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

 

The City of Brampton has recognised Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun for his remarkable contributions to a transformative initiative designed to empower women through essential skill-building for independence and self-reliance. This formal acknowledgment took place on August 15, 2025, in Mayor Patrick Brown’s office during a visit from the Africa Made Economic Growth Initiative (AMEGI) team. Represented by his wife, Mrs. Omolara Egungbohun, Alhaji Dende received the certification amidst an atmosphere of gratitude and celebration. Mayor Brown presented the certificate personally and extended his commendations to the IBD Foundation for their relentless pursuit of women’s empowerment, development, and their philanthropic efforts.

The Certificate of Recognition underscored Egungbohun’s unwavering dedication and tireless efforts to create diverse opportunities for women to enhance their skills, develop their potential, and ultimately prosper in their personal and professional lives. As a philanthropist, esteemed businessman, and influential social figure, his impact in Nigeria and beyond is both profound and far-reaching.

Egungbohun’s generosity and steadfast commitment have significantly bolstered the confidence of program participants, facilitating their ability to envision and construct brighter futures while strengthening community ties. In his acknowledgment, Mayor Brown stated, “Your dedication uplifts those working to inspire others,” highlighting the deep and lasting influence of Egungbohun’s work in empowering women.

Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

This initiative is not just a standalone effort; it harmonizes perfectly with Brampton’s broader mission to advocate for and uplift marginalized groups within the community. Egungbohun’s contributions serve as a vital catalyst for transformative change, offering practical skills that enhance employability while reshaping the economic and social framework for women. Through an assortment of workshops, mentorship programs, and robust support networks, he has fostered an encouraging environment where women can fully explore and realize their potential.

As Brampton steadfastly commits itself to promoting inclusivity and equity, leaders like Egungbohun exemplify how collaboration, vision, and genuine enthusiastic engagement can effectively turn hopes and aspirations into tangible realities. The public acknowledgment from the city not only honors individual efforts but also sends a resounding message, inspiring other community leaders and stakeholders to step up and invest in grassroots empowerment initiatives that uplift and serve those in need. This recognition is a clarion call for collective action toward a more equitable and inclusive society.

 

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

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Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

 

Tayo Folorunsho, renowned youth ambassador and edutainment advocate, has been officially nominated to be decorated as a Celebrity Special Marshal (CSM) of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC).

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

The unveiling took place at the recently concluded FRSC Youth Hangout, held in celebration of the United Nations International Youth Day at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

 

Over the years, Tayo Folorunsho has distinguished himself as a passionate youth leader, consistently driving initiatives that inspire and empower young people. His recognition as a Celebrity Special Marshal is not only a mark of honor but also a call to responsibility—championing road safety, responsibility, and positive change within society.

 

Tayo Folorunsho Nominated as Celebrity Special Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps

 

Speaking on the recognition, Tayo Folorunsho emphasized:

“This is more than an honor; it is a responsibility to use my voice and influence to promote safety, responsibility, and positive change on our roads.”

 

This milestone reinforces his commitment to youth empowerment, social responsibility, and nation-building through edutainment and advocacy.

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

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FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

In a country where road accidents claim thousands of lives each year—most of them young people—the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) and Edutainment First International have launched a bold new initiative to change the narrative. On Thursday, August 14, both organizations hosted the maiden Road Safety Youth Hangout at the National Judicial Institute, Abuja.

 

FRSC Partners with Edutainment First International to Drive Road Safety Awareness in Nigeria

 

The event, held to mark United Nations International Youth Day 2025, brought together more than 300 participants, including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), students, youth leaders, and community representatives. Unlike traditional road safety campaigns, the hangout was designed as an interactive forum blending education and entertainment, where young Nigerians could learn, innovate, and commit to safer road practices.

 

 

According to FRSC data, young people remain the most vulnerable demographic in road traffic crashes across Nigeria—an urgent concern this initiative aims to tackle. Through storytelling, innovation, and collaborative problem-solving, the Road Safety Youth Hangout sought to transform young Nigerians into advocates for safety within their communities.

 

 

“This is not just about rules and regulations,” said one of the organizers. “It’s about equipping young people with the tools and the voice to change Nigeria’s road culture.”

 

Aligned with the UN’s 2025 theme, “Local Youth Actions for the SDGs and Beyond,” the program underscored the critical role of young Nigerians in advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those connected to health, safety, and responsible citizenship.

 

 

By focusing on empowerment rather than enforcement, FRSC and Edutainment First International signaled a fresh approach to road safety: investing in the next generation as the real drivers of change. The belief is simple yet powerful—an informed and empowered youth population is key to reducing accidents and saving lives.

 

 

For many participants, the hangout was more than just an event; it was a wake-up call. With interactive sessions infused with music, drama, and dialogue, young Nigerians were challenged to reflect on their daily habits as road users and to embrace leadership as advocates for safer communities.

 

 

As one youth participant reflected:

“Road safety isn’t just the job of the FRSC. It’s our responsibility too—because we are the ones most at risk.”

 

The maiden edition of the Road Safety Youth Hangout may have ended, but the movement it launched has only just begun. Its message was unmistakable: Nigeria’s fight for safer roads must be youth-led, collaborative, and relentless.

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