By Enitan Abdultawab

The Chief of Staff to late former president Muhammadu Buhari, Professor Ibrahim Agboola Gambari; Sokoto State Governor, Ahmed Aliu Sokoto; the Olowu of Owu Kingdom, Oba (Prof.) Saka Adelola Matemilola, the Vice Chancellor of Maranatha University, Prof. Rufus Taiwo Akinyele, and Lt. Gen. L. Adeosun (rtrd) were among distinguished Nigerians honoured with the Distinguished Fellowship Award of the Institute of Security, Nigeria.

The occasion, held on Saturday at the Faculty of Social Sciences Auditorium, University of Lagos, featured former Chief of Army Staff, Brigadier Tukur Yusuf Buratai, as the keynote speaker. It also had an Associate Professor in the Department of Mass Communication, University of Lagos, Dr Olunifesi Suraj; wife of Olowu of Owu, Olori Ameenah Matemilola, honoured with the Senior Fellowship of the Institute’s award, while the Special Adviser on Foreign Relations and Head of Protocol of Pan African American Chamber of Commerce (PAACC), Olatutu Oladunni received the fellowship award alongside several others.

Speaking at the event, Distinguished Professor James Olowokudejo, President of IASN, highlighted the pressing need for robust security measures in Nigeria.

He stated, “The need for this conference has never been more pressing. Nigeria is facing numerous security challenges that threaten the stability and progress of our nation. Insecurity has become a major concern for our citizens, and it is imperative that we come together to find lasting solutions to these problems.”

Professor Olowokudejo further emphasized the role of innovation in security management, noting that “Innovative approaches, driven by scientific and technological development, are essential to addressing the security challenges facing our nation. This conference provides a platform for experts and professionals to share knowledge, explore strategies for enhancing security, and foster collaboration among stakeholders in the security industry.”

Other inductees of the fellow honours include : Rashid Adeyinka Adelakun, Mandela Onyemola, John Olayinka Bamgbose, Ayoleyi Faith Àjàyí, Prof. Oladapo Fapetu, Prof. Folaseyi Olowokudejo, Alhaji Mustapha Adetunji Oladipo, Olori Khadijat Bamidele Matelola, Captain Murtala Kafilah Sulaimon, and Ambassador Olatutu Oladunni, and several others.

The fellowship honours are intended to recognize exceptional contributions to the security sector and nation-building, celebrating individuals whose work exemplifies integrity, expertise, and leadership in tackling contemporary security issues.