By: George Ozalla
It was an evening of joy and happiness yesterday at the IGP Kayode Egbekotun Fitness Center Hall, Opposite Force Headquarters Abuja-FCT, as Ikirun people under the umbrella body of Ikirun Development Association (NIPU), FCT and Northern States Council honoured one of its illustrious sons in the person of DIG Badru Banji Lawal who was decorated with his new rank during the week to represent South West Geopolitical Zone in the Police Force Management Team.
After the opening prayer and rendition of national anthem, chairman of NIPU FCT Chapter, Alhaji Hamed Omowale in his welcome address expressed happiness and extend warm welcome to every guest who came to honour the newly appointed Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Badru Banji Lawal.
Omowale on behalf of the Ikirun Development Association (NIPU) FCT and Northern States Council thanked all the guests, especially the main host, Alhaji Jimoh Rauf Badamosi for his strong support to Ikirun community and for making the event possible.
He extended heartfelt gratitude to the Father of the Day, Chief Layi Oke, and Mother of the Day, Hajia Balqis Owodunni and a host of others.
He concluded by saying, “Today, we celebrate a significant achievement in DIG Badru Banji Lawal’s career. His hard work, strong leadership, and commitment to national security have earned him this great honour. His journey has shown resilience, professionalism, and a strong sense of duty -qualities that inspire us all. We wish him success, wisdom, and more positive impact in this new chapter of his career. We remain committed to supporting him and wish him the best in his future responsibilities”.
Visibly elated DIG Lawal and his wife beaming with smiles took time to move round the hall to exchange greetings and banters with his kinsmen and other invited guests, after which DIG Lawal narrated few of his experiences in the field of duty, he counselled against anyone taking to crime because it does not pay, Lawal emphasized- he decried the get rich quick syndrome and what is being referred today as Yahoo Yahoo.
He later used the opportunity to specifically thank Ikirun people and his special guests who made it to the event despite short notice given to them, especially Rev. J C Ayozie and family whom he informed few hours before the event and he came along with his family.
Dr Olagunji Idowu, Secretary General Nigeria National Commission for UNESCO described DIG Lawal as a wonderful man and an illustrious son who has inspired a lot of people and wished well.
Other various speakers lauded Lawal’s discipline and dedication to duty which has made it possible for him to reach the peak of his career, many described him as an articulated experienced fine officer and pillar of support to his people.
Comrade Kayode Lawal in his remark described his Uncle as a shining example of resilience and focus who has made everyone proud.
Some of the guests who graced the occasion include: Colonel Aderemi Jayeola Rtd, Alhaji Kunle Ajileye, Baban Ibro Aliyu and a host of others.
Major highlights of the event was presentation of an imposing photo frame of DIG Lawal by his kinsmen with prayers and out pour of best wishes, music, dance, photographs and entertainment.
