From Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
The Sokoto State Government’s Security Adviser, retired Colonel Ahmed Abdul Usman, has received international recognition after being certified as a Certified Strategic Director in Security, Leadership and Management by TOPFORD International and inducted as a Fellow of the Institute of Corporate Security Professionals (ICSP), USA.
The recognition was conferred at the International Security Leadership Summit (ISLS) 2026, held in Accra, Ghana, from October 27 to 30.
The four-day summit brought together security leaders, corporate executives, policymakers, academics and professionals from different countries to discuss strategic leadership, institutional development and emerging challenges in the global security industry.
Usman received the Certified Strategic Director qualification from TOPFORD International, while ICSP-USA inducted him as a Fellow during the summit.
The recognition followed his participation in the Advanced Security Leadership and Strategic Management Programme (ASLSMP), which featured executive learning, strategic discussions, professional networking and international engagements.
A major highlight of the summit was the certification of participants as Certified Strategic Directors in Security, Leadership and Management, alongside the maiden induction of ICSP-USA Pioneer Members.
The event also provided an opportunity for participants to strengthen professional relationships, exchange expertise and explore avenues for international cooperation in security management.
TOPFORD International and ICSP-USA, in a statement following the conclusion of the summit, described the Accra gathering as a landmark in their commitment to advancing professional security education, strategic leadership development and international cooperation.
The organisations called on security leaders, corporate executives, policymakers, security institutions, professional bodies and academics across Africa and beyond to build strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening institutional capacity and improving professional standards in the security industry.
They also expressed appreciation to delegates, facilitators, newly certified professionals, inducted members, institutional leaders and partners for contributing to the success of the summit.
The recognition adds an international professional dimension to Col. Ahmed Abdul Usman’s security leadership experience, particularly amid ongoing efforts to strengthen security coordination and institutional capacity in Sokoto State.
