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My Encounter with CSP Umar Balla: A Testament to Professionalism in the Nigerian Police Force

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My Encounter with CSP Umar Balla: A Testament to Professionalism in the Nigerian Police Force

My Encounter with CSP Umar Balla: A Testament to Professionalism in the Nigerian Police Force

 

As a journalist, this marks my first opportunity to write a column focused on the Nigerian police.

My motivation for this piece stems from a recent encounter with Chief Superintendent of Police (CSP) Umar Balla, a senior officer in the Nigerian police force.

My Encounter with CSP Umar Balla: A Testament to Professionalism in the Nigerian Police Force

At the time of writing this, CSP Balla serves as the Divisional Police Officer for the Ketu Police Division, located in the Kosofe Local Government Area of Lagos State, Nigeria. The events unfolded around 11:30 AM on Saturday, January 25th.

As an automobile dealer, I had dispatched my brother, an employee at my dealership, to take one of our cars to the Ladiipo market for repairs. The car, a second-hand vehicle, had previously lost its number plate, to the former owner of the car, leaving us to use our dealership’s number plate, which it certificate, unfortunately had expired last December. Although we had renewed it, my brother had forgotten to bring the updated documentation.

When my brother reached the police checkpoint at Ketu bus stop, he was stopped by officers and asked to present his driver’s license, which he did. However, he was also asked to provide his dealership identity card and certificate. He presented the expired certificate but couldn’t produce his identity card, which he carelessly left in the office before embarking on the journey and this was ultimately used against him.

He called me, and I spoke with the officer who explained the situation. I thanked him for his diligence, emphasizing that if the vehicle had been stolen, this is how the perpetrators would be caught. I informed him that the certificate had expired and that I could send the renewed copy and my brother’s identity card via WhatsApp. Despite my reasoning, the officer insisted on taking the car to the station.

At the station, after several hours of pleading, the officer directed my brother to return to our office in Ikorodu to retrieve all relevant documents for the car. Fearing dismissal from the company for his oversight, my brother rushed back to Ikorodu. By 5:30 PM, he returned to the station with the necessary papers, only to be told that I needed to be present in person, despite having explained my absence from Lagos.

After leaving the station around 8 PM without the car, I had to inform our potential client that the vehicle would not be available for inspection, attributing it to circumstances beyond our control.

On Sunday, I set aside other commitments and traveled to Lagos to resolve the situation at the police station on Monday morning. Arriving at the Ketu police division at 10:34 AM with my brother, we went directly to the officer’s office, only to find that he was not yet there. Efforts to obtain his contact from other officers were unsuccessful.

After two hours of waiting, I decided to call CSP Umar Balla directly, a man I had never spoken to before. To my surprise, he exhibited remarkable professionalism and integrity. He informed me that he was at Mile 12 for an important meeting but would return to the office shortly.

True to his word, eight minutes later, CSP Balla called me to meet him in his office. Upon my arrival, he promptly instructed his secretary to escort me to the unit where my car was held and ordered its immediate release at no cost. I was taken aback, completely speechless. When I reached for my wallet to express my gratitude, he firmly declined any offer of money, cautioning me never to pay a dime to any officer.

In conclusion, I felt compelled to share this experience to highlight the commendable individuals within the Nigerian police force. It is essential to recognize and celebrate their integrity and professionalism, rather than focusing solely on the negative narratives often associated with law enforcement.
Story by Chief Rahman Niyi Ismail CEO JOURNAL GLOBAL AUTOS LIMITED

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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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