A significant step towards fostering collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) was taken recently as the Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria French Language Village (NFLV), Professor Oladiipo Kolawole, PhD, FNITI, led a delegation of Principal Officers on a familiarization visit to the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Badagry, CSP Folajimi Agosile.

The visit, which held at the Badagry Divisional Police Headquarters, commenced with prayers, reflecting the diverse faith of attendees, setting a tone of unity and mutual respect. Following the introduction of the host, the guest and members of their delegations, Professor Oladiipo, who assumed his role as Chief Executive Officer on February 13, 2025, articulated the purpose of the visit, emphasizing the importance of establishing and maintaining strong relationship with key stakeholders in Badagry community, particularly the Nigeria Police. He also highlighted the directive of the Honourable Minister of Education, which underscores the crucial role of security agencies in border areas and the need for them to be French proficient, This, he explained, was essential to enhance operational effectiveness of the Officers and foster effective communication in the region. While appreciating the Divisional Police Officer for his support to his predecessors, the Director / CEO equally expressed commitment to building upon the existing positive relationship between NFLV and the Police, seeking its continued support in ensuring the smooth and secure day-to-day operations of the institution.

In response, DSP Agosile appreciated the French Village Boss for the visit and assured him of the Force’s unwavering commitment to collaborating with NFLV while he equally pledged to maintain a proactive stance on security matters. “We will ensure rendering a good service to NFLV,” he stated. The DPO also shared his positive observations regarding French Village students, noting their exemplary behavior and infrequent presence in the wider Badagry community. Professor Oladiipo clarified that the students’ structured academic schedule, filled with day time, evening and weekly activities, effectively keeps them engaged and focused on their French Language Immersion Programme.

The visit concluded with a symbolic exchange of souvenirs signifying the strengthening of ties between the two entities. The familiarization visit marks a significant step in reinforcing the collaborative relationship between the Nigeria French Language Village and the Nigeria Police Force in Badagry, promising a more secure and harmonious environment for both institutions and the wider community.

In a move to reinforce existing relationship and ensure continued collaboration with the Military, Professor Samuel Kolawole, the 5^th Director / Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria French Language Village (NFLV), paid a familiarization visit to the Commanding Officer, 243 RECCE Battalion Army Barracks, Ibereko – Badagry. Colonel. A.M. Abdu.

Following introduction of both teams, Professor Kolawole articulated the purpose of the visit, emphasizing NFLV's tradition of engaging with key stakeholders, particularly security agencies, on assumption of duty. “We are here, as it is our tradition, when there is a change in administration, to familiarize ourselves with those we work with, especially security agencies,” he stated.

Highlighting his activities since assuming office in February 2025, Professor Kolawole explained that his visit is aimed at fostering collaboration and sustaining the cordial relationships established with his predecessors. He also used the opportunity to solicit further support from the Battalion. He commended the Military Personnel deployed to NFLV for their professionalism and dedication, noting their pleasant personalities and positive impact. However, he requested an increase in the number of military personnel deployed to further enhance security on campus.

Expatiating on NFLV's core mandate, Professor Kolawole stressed the importance of French language proficiency, particularly for security personnel operating at close proximity to French-speaking countries. He encouraged the officers and men of 243 RECCE Battalion to participate in the French proficiency programmes in order to facilitate effective communication across borders and mitigate potential language barriers.

The Commanding Officer responded warmly, acknowledging the strategic importance of French language skills for border security. “We are here to protect the border we [Nigeria] share with Benin, and this emphasizes the need to learn French,” he affirmed. He pledged to encourage his officers to enroll in French language classes, recognizing the practical benefits for their operational effectiveness.

Colonel Abdu reiterated the Battalion's long-standing positive relationship with NFLV and assured Professor Kolawole of its continuation. He offered prayers for the Director’s success in leading the NFLV to greater heights and promised to address the request for additional soldiers. He also assured the Director / CEO that he and his office would remain readily available for any assistance required.