Commander Joseph Omini Ogburuwa, Cross River NFSS Boss, Awarded Doctorate in Security and Intelligence
By Genesis ogiri
Abuja, Nigeria — It was a moment of pride and celebration as Commander Joseph Omini Ogburuwa, the dynamic State Commandant of the Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS), Cross River State, received an Honorary Doctoral Degree in Security and Intelligence from the prestigious Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, USA.
The conferment ceremony, staged at the National Merit Award House, Maitama, Abuja, drew dignitaries from Nigeria’s security agencies, academia, and political class, who gathered to honor one of the country’s finest security leaders.
As State Commandant in Cross River, Commander Ogburuwa has distinguished himself as a reform-driven leader, blending intelligence, discipline, and community engagement to enhance security operations.
His leadership has transformed NFSS activities in the state, particularly in tackling illegal logging, forest encroachment, and environmental crimes, while also fostering safer communities through strategic collaboration with traditional rulers, local authorities, and other security agencies.
Commander Ogburuwa’s journey from officer to State Commandant reflects resilience, professionalism, and a visionary approach that continues to inspire his officers and the communities he serves.
Presenting the honorary degree, Professor J. N. William, country representative of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, commended Ogburuwa’s service.
“Embry-Riddle is recognized globally for its leadership in aviation, safety, security, and intelligence. Commander Joseph Omini Ogburuwa has shown that leadership is about impact. His service in Cross River State demonstrates innovation, dedication, and ethical responsibility — qualities that made him deserving of this honor,” Prof. William said.
In his remarks, Commander Ogburuwa expressed profound gratitude for the honor, dedicating it to the Nigeria Forest Security Service and his team in Cross River.
“I am deeply humbled by this recognition from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University. This award is not just about me but about the NFSS family and the work we do in Cross River to protect our forests and ensure community safety. It is a call to greater service,” he said.
He further pledged to channel the recognition into building stronger operations in the state.
“My commitment is to deepen security strategies, leverage intelligence, and strengthen collaboration so that Cross River remains a model for proactive and ethical security management,” the Commandant assured
Commander Ogburuwa’s recognition places Cross River State on the global map of security excellence. The honorary doctorate is a testament to his dedication to protecting people, preserving natural resources, and ensuring security structures that foster peace and development.
As Cross River State Commandant of the NFSS, Commander Joseph Omini Ogburuwa has proven that leadership is measured by service, results, and vision. His honorary doctorate from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, USA cements his legacy as one of Nigeria’s exemplary security leaders — a man whose work continues to inspire both at home and abroad.