Forensic Institute DG Morgan Inducts Kemi Areola, Urges Certification Among Professionals

...ENGR. OLUWAKEMI MELODY AREOLA HONOURED AS ASSOCIATE FELLOW BY CHARTERED INSTITUTE OF FORENSIC AND SECURITY STUDIES

By Genesis Ogiri | Abuja

In a momentous and professionally charged gathering held at the prestigious Abuja Continental Hotel, Engr. Oluwakemi Ann Melody Areola was inducted as an Associate Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Forensic and Security Studies of Nigeria (CIFSSN)—a recognition that celebrates her outstanding dedication to peacebuilding, leadership, and ethical governance.

The event, which attracted notable figures from security, law, and academia, celebrated Areola’s induction as a significant milestone—not just for her, but for the broader vision of promoting forensic science and security professionalism in Nigeria.

As part of his advocacy, Amb. Okocha Morgan urged private investigators, law enforcement agents, and security professionals to seek certification through the Institute, stressing that only properly trained and accredited forensic experts can operate credibly within the legal system.

"Courts now accept electronically generated forensic evidence—but only from certified experts.”

This powerful statement from Ambassador (Dr.) Okocha Morgan, the Director-General of the Chartered Institute of Forensic and Security Studies of Nigeria (CIFSSN), set the tone for a groundbreaking induction ceremony held over the weekend  where Engr. Oluwakemi Ann Melody Areola was formally inducted as an Associate Fellow of the Institute.

 Dr. Morgan’s address underscored the critical importance of forensic certification in today’s legal and security frameworks, warning that the growing reliance on digital evidence in Nigerian courts demands a higher level of professional competence and legal compliance.

The Chartered Institute has been duly certified and nationally recognized,” he declared. “We offer the platform, the training, and the standards required for forensic practice in Nigeria. It is time for stakeholders to get certified and reposition themselves for relevance.”

“We are in an era where justice depends not just on facts, but on how those facts are collected, analyzed, and presented,” he said. “Professionals must now embrace forensic education. No court will accept digital evidence from unqualified persons. The standard is rising—and we must rise with it.”

“Courts across the country are now accepting digital evidence—emails, video, biometric data—as valid. But to present such evidence credibly, the professional must be trained, certified, and legally recognized,” he explained. “This is why the role of this Institute is more critical than ever.”

He further urged private investigators, law enforcement officers, and security consultants to pursue professional certifications through the Institute, stressing that the credibility of modern criminal investigations and dispute resolutions hinges on forensic accuracy and expert validation.

In his keynote remarks, Amb. Okocha Morgan commended Engr. Areola for embodying the ideals of professionalism and integrity that the Institute seeks to promote. He described her as “a spotlight in leadership and peace management,” and expressed confidence in her capacity to influence positive change in the evolving field of forensic and security studies.

 “We are proud to induct professionals like Engr. Melody Areola who have demonstrated unwavering commitment to nation-building through ethical leadership and service,” said Amb. Morgan. “Her accomplishments and conduct exemplify the standards this institute upholds.”

The induction ceremony concluded with a call to action for increased collaboration among security professionals, institutions, and government agencies to strengthen national security using forensic tools and intelligence-led investigations.

Speaking briefly after receiving the honour, Engr. Oluwakemi Areola expressed gratitude to the Institute and reaffirmed her commitment to the advancement of forensic education, peace initiatives, and the rule of law in Nigeria. She described the recognition as both humbling and empowering.

 “This award is a call to deeper responsibility,” she said. “I am inspired to contribute more intentionally to promoting security, justice, and ethical leadership in all spheres I find myself.”

The Chartered Institute of Forensic and Security Studies of Nigeria remains one of the country’s leading professional bodies advancing forensic science education, investigative practice, and ethical security management in the public and private sectors.

With the induction of professionals like Engr. Areola, the Chartered Institute of Forensic and Security Studies of Nigeria reinforces its mandate to build a corps of certified experts who will shape the future of legal, investigative, and peacebuilding frameworks in Nigeria. As technology continues to redefine evidence and accountability, the Institute remains at the forefront of preparing professionals to meet the demands of a new forensic era.