My name is Aliyu Usman, and I am a Superintendent of Police (SP) in Nigeria, bringing over 12 years of dedicated service to the Nigeria Police Force. My career is marked by a deep commitment to human rights, criminal justice, and conflict resolution. I am a seasoned professional with a strong record of leadership and active community engagement. I hold a Master of Arts in Human Rights in Criminal Justice from the University of Limerick, which has provided me with comprehensive expertise in human rights principles, international law, and advocacy.

Prior to coming to Ireland, I completed two master’s degrees from Kaduna State University, one in Criminal Justice and another in Peace, Conflict, and Strategic Studies. Additionally, I pursued studies in Policing at the Nigerian Police Academy. These academic programmes provided me with a strong foundation in modern policing practices, human rights principles, and conflict resolution strategies. As the Police Public Relations Officer at the Nigeria Police Force, Kaduna State Command Headquarters, I was responsible for managing the public image of the police, overseeing media relations, and coordinating community outreach initiatives. My role included developing and implementing strategic police-community partnership projects aimed at strengthening relations between the police and the community, ultimately enhancing public trust.

As a Fellow of the Ireland Fellows Programme, I completed a Master of Arts in Human Rights in Criminal Justice at the University of Limerick. I selected this course for its distinctive focus on the intersection of human rights and criminal justice, which closely align with my professional aspirations. The course's comprehensive curriculum encompassed international human rights law, criminal justice, and advocacy strategies, with a strong emphasis on practical applications. The course’s reputation for excellence in human rights education was a significant factor in my decision. I am confident that the knowledge and skills acquired through this course have equipped me to make a meaningful impact in my field and advance the cause of human rights in my country.

Reflecting on the conclusion of the Master of Arts in Human Rights in Criminal Justice, I recognise that I gained a profound understanding of human rights principles, international law, and advocacy strategies. I developed a critical perspective on criminal justice and learned to effectively apply human rights standards in policing. The experience also allowed me to build valuable connections with other Fellows and academic staff, significantly expanding my professional network. Furthermore, I acquired a renewed confidence in my ability to analyse complex human rights issues and formulate effective solutions. Overall, I felt empowered and well-prepared to make a meaningful impact in my society.

My time in Ireland is marked by strong memories of the warm hospitality extended by the Irish people, the breathtaking landscapes, and the country’s deep cultural heritage. I deeply value the friendships I built with other Fellows and the academic staff, whose support and kindness made me feel genuinely welcomed throughout my stay. I also recall with fondness my exploration of Ireland’s stunning natural beauty, including the Cliffs of Moher and the Ring of Kerry. The vibrant culture and the friendly atmosphere made my experience in Ireland truly unforgettable.

One aspect that stood out to me as both unexpected and delightful was the warm and welcoming nature of the Irish people. Coming from Nigeria, where the culture of interaction with foreigners tends to be more formal and reserved, I was pleasantly surprised by how easily people in Ireland would engage in conversation and show a genuine interest in getting to know me. This refreshing openness took some time to adjust to, but I quickly grew to appreciate and love the Irish hospitality and their warm demeanour. Additionally, while the Irish accent and local slang required some adaptation, they added a unique charm to my experience. Of course, the absolute contrast in climate was another adjustment, transitioning from Nigeria's tropical warmth to Ireland's much colder weather was a shock to my body system. I had to adapt my wardrobe and approach to dressing to stay warm, but this was a small price to pay for the enriching experience I enjoyed in Ireland!

Since returning to Nigeria, I have held several key roles, includingChief Personal Security officer and Aide De Camp to Zamfara State Governor. Notably, I was a Technical Expert for planning the 2019 general elections in Nigeria, where I played a crucial role in training officers on election security and management. During the heightened incidences of kidnapping and banditry in Kaduna state in 2019, I was nominated as Secretary of the Technical Committee on Curbing Kidnapping and Related Crimes by the Nigeria Police Force, Kaduna State Command, where I played a role in identifying camps and hotspots of kidnapping as well asdeveloping the strategies that led to the successful return of security along Kaduna – Abuja Highway. Currently, I am on secondment to the Ministry of Defence as the Special Adviser on Security to the Honourable Minister of State for Defence where I support the Honourable Minister on critical security issues such as counter-terrorism, counter-insurgency, and conflict resolution. My responsibilities include working with the military and other staff of the Ministry of Defence as well as various security agencies, stakeholders, and international partners to ensure the effective implementation of security policies and programmes. Additionally, I play a crucial role in facilitating communication between the Ministry, other government agencies, civil society organisations, and the public, with a strong focus on promoting transparency and accountability within the security sector. Moreover, I have utilised my acquired skills and knowledge to train and mentor others. In September 2024 I earned a PhD in Defence and Security Studies from the Nigerian Defence Academy. My journey in the University of Limerick (UL) and the experiences gathered during my fellowship in Ireland have assisted me in navigating the study environment using the unique principles of success learned at the UL school of Law, this enables me to successfully accomplish my doctorate with relative ease, further strengthening my commitment to serving Nigeria and promoting human rights and security.

My experience on the Ireland Fellows Programme and studying at the University of Limerick, combined with my time in Ireland, has significantly shaped my professional path. This period provided me with a deep understanding of human rights, honed my critical thinking and analytical abilities, and fostered a strong network of professionals. Additionally, I have developed cultural competence, adaptability, and the confidence required to excel in my field. This comprehensive skill set allows me to address complex challenges with a nuanced, informed perspective, develop effective solutions, and drive meaningful impact in the areas of human rights, security, and criminal justice.

In the future, I am committed to advancing my career by making a significant and lasting impact in the fields of human rights, security, and criminal justice. I aspire to take on leadership positions that will allow me to influence policy and drive meaningful change. Specifically, my objectives are to:

• Continue collaborating with government agencies, international organisations, and civil society groups to promote human rights and security sector reform.
• Deepen my expertise in critical areas such as counter-terrorism, cybersecurity, and emerging security threats.
• Assume a senior role within organisations like the United Nations, African Union, or ECOWAS, contributing to global efforts to enhance peace, security, and human rights.
• Ultimately, my goal is to become a leading voice in the field, spearheading innovative solutions to complex security challenges and advocating for a more just and peaceful world.

For those embarking on the Ireland Fellows Programme, I would offer the following advice:

1. Approach the experience with an open mind, ready to embrace the rich culture and new experiences that Ireland offers.

2. Fully leverage the academic and professional development opportunities available through the programme.

3. Actively network and cultivate relationships with peers, mentors, and professionals.

4. Engage proactively with your host community; immerse yourself in Ireland's culture and explore its diverse offerings.

5. Regularly reflect on your learning and experiences, considering how they can enhance your future career and personal growth.

6. Don't hesitate to seek support when needed - the programme team and your university are committed to assisting you.