society

HAVARD TRAINED AIG MAKES IGP’s SUCCESSION LIST By Gbadamosi Raheem

Published

5 years ago

January 31, 2021

Nigeria’s 20th Inspector General of Police, Mohammed Adamu, is rounding off his career after his two-year tenure in the police’s highest office, starting from January 2019.

He succeeded IGP Idris Ibrahim whose tenure was allegedly marked by low performance and exposure of the police to avoidable ridicule.

In the periodic ritual at the force headquarters, Adamu successor is the burning issue among officers, rank, and file, all of whom clandestinely but freely express their preferences to receive the baton from Adamu.

While the raging debates hold in quiet mode, the affected senior officers are in the know but maintaining a measured distance to avoid being tagged desperados.

It was gathered that one of the candidates, who hails from the North, had issued a strong warning to his subordinates against discussion related to Adamu’s successor, let alone associating his name with the alleged scheming playing out at the force headquarters.

“A colleague told me that nobody should talk about that topic in that office, even though it is the major subject since December, especially when some promotions were announced. Our people have started their usual permutation but I am not interested in anyone who gets it,” a source said.

While the source declined further comment, his unspoken word was indicative of two things: One, President Muhammadu Buhari’s likely extension of Adamu’s tenure according to constitutional provision which confers such power on him as the commander-in-chief of the armed forces.

However, another source offered a counter view declaring that President Buhari would not want to match his feet on section 18 (8) of the police act, 2020, which states, “that every police officer shall on recruitment or appointment serve the Nigeria Police Force for 35 years or until he attains the age of 60 years, whichever comes first.”

Secondly, two officers are touted to be enjoying more mention. They are the newly promoted Assistant Inspector General of Police Dasuki Galadanchi and acting DIG, AIG. Moses Jitoboh who currently heads Research and Planning Department

Further findings have dug out the name of Jitoboh, a Bayelsa State-born cop, as the most favoured. It was learned that Jitoboh’s human relations had earned him priviledged postings in the past 20 years with a record of competence, which, another source said, won Nigeria Police some accolades at the corridor of power, precisely the Presidency, where his physical presence was a noticeable feature, especially at State functions attended by the immediate past, President Goodluck Jonathan.

“I never met him, I only saw him on television but all I have heard of him have made me always wish to work with him. He is the type of leader Nigeria Police need now to gain more confidence. I think you know what I mean as one who has covered us for a long time,” he noted.

Following the source’s lead, our correspondent further gathered that Jitoboh served President Jonathan from when he was deputy governor in Bayelsa State between 1999 and 2005 to Jonathan’s last day in the Presidential Villa on May 29, 2015. He was in charge of the presidential security personnel, posting, and supervision.

The detribalised officer, having attended schools at different geo-political zones in the country, is said to have possessed what a source described as an intimidating credential both academically and in his career, an attribute, which the source added, made him more attractive to choice postings.

He is currently a Ph.D. student at the Imo State University where he studies Geography and Information System. This feat followed his similar exploit at the University of Leicester, UK where he bagged an MSC in Security and Risk Management in 2019, 13 years after he had got his first MSC in Geographical Information System from Imo State University.

His hunger for academic excellence had also seen him being awarded a Certificate in Negotiation and Leadership at the prestigious Havard Law School programme on negotiation in addition to a certificate in National and International Security Policy also at Havard Kennedy School for Governance. Besides, he is a fellow, Association of Professional Negotiators and Mediators (APNM), Abuja.

Before his current office, he was in charge of Border Patrol Force, he had equally served as the AIG for Zone 8, comprising Kogi, Ekiti, and Kwara State Commands. He was also the Commissioner of Police, General Investigation at the Force Criminal Intelligence and Investigations Department, (FCIID) Annex, Alagbon, Lagos; CP, Adamawa State Command, CP Force Criminal Intelligence and Investigations Department, Abuja and CP, Administration at the Department of Research and Planning in the Force Headquarters, Abuja.

Aside from his profile, another thing that is working in his favour is the wish and subtle call by the police for a young IGP, who has more years in his career to set and implement the 21st Century agenda. Unlike his contenders, whose retirements are alarmingly knocking on their doors, Jitoboh has another nine years and required energy to drive and consolidate the gains recorded by Adamu who is regarded by a group of officers as “Mr. Turn Around of Nigeria Police”.

“IGP Adamu has done his best, let’s look for somebody who would take it from there. That Bayelsa officer fits in perfectly. He seems to have what it takes to continue the good work of Adamu,” a retired commissioner of police, who declined his name in print, said.

His Excellency, President Muhammadu Buhari, has over the years, taken pragmatic steps to address the gaps in the Nigeria police that have undermined its potential to emerge as a leading police institution in the world. The President has, very recently, signed the Police Act, 2020, into law. The ACT aims to reposition the Nigerian Police to overcome the challenges of policing in the 21st century. Mr. President has also authorized the annual employment of at least Ten Thousand Nigerians as Police officers to address manpower gaps, instituted a Retirees Resettlement Support Scheme, and has established the Police Trust Fund to address challenges with infrastructure and police welfare.

With the President’s clear focus on rebuilding the Nigeria Police into a global model, Nigerians are confident that the choice of who succeeds the incumbent IG will follow from the President’s robust vision for the Nigeria Police.

society

Mayor of Brampton Honours IBD Foundation

Published

12 hours ago

August 18, 2025

Sahara Weekly

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.

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.

society

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

Published

1 day ago

August 17, 2025

Sahara Weekly

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).

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.

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.

society

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

Published

2 days ago

August 17, 2025

Sahara Weekly

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.

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.