The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has formally recognised a Kano-based volunteer, Mr Nura Abdullahi, for an extraordinary act of honesty, returning over N20 million that was accidentally left behind in a commercial tricycle, popularly known as a ‘keke napep.’ The commendation highlights the importance of integrity and civic responsibility in society, particularly during challenging economic times in Nigeria.
Volunteer praised for rare act of honesty amid economic hardship
Abdullahi’s actions were described by the corps as an exemplary display of integrity at a time when financial pressures are mounting for many Nigerians. On Friday, in Kano, ACG Amos Abiodun-Taiwo, Commander of NSCDC Zone 12, personally presented Abdullahi with a formal commendation letter in recognition of his honesty and dedication to doing the right thing. This commendation was given following approval from the Commandant-General, Dr Ahmed Abubakar Audi, after the incident had been confirmed by the corps authorities.
Commander says Abdullahi acted with ‘remarkable integrity’
Speaking during the ceremony, Commander Abiodun-Taiwo described Abdullahi as a “good ambassador of his family, the NSCDC, and the entire country.” He emphasised that while social media often highlights negative incidents, positive acts like Abdullahi’s deserve just as much attention, noting that such gestures can inspire others to uphold moral values and integrity in their daily lives.
According to the account, Abdullahi came across the money after a fellow passenger, Alhaji Mustafa from Katsina, inadvertently left his bag inside the tricycle. Earlier, Mustafa had lent Abdullahi his phone. Abdullahi cleverly used the phone’s most recent dialled number to contact Mustafa and ensured the full cash was returned without any loss, displaying both presence of mind and honesty in handling the situation.
The commander highlighted that Abdullahi’s honesty was particularly noteworthy because he is not a permanent NSCDC officer but a volunteer. Furthermore, he reportedly had less than N20,000 in his account at the time, underscoring the exceptional nature of his act amid personal financial constraints. Returning such a substantial sum of money is rare, especially given the current economic difficulties in the country, making Abdullahi’s actions a shining example of moral discipline and civic responsibility.
Commander Abiodun-Taiwo urged Nigerians, especially young people, to emulate Abdullahi’s integrity, stressing that moral discipline and uprightness remain crucial for personal and societal growth. He also assured that Abdullahi would be “well rewarded” for his upright behaviour, emphasizing that choosing the right path, even when challenging, brings lasting peace of mind and strengthens public trust in the integrity of citizens and volunteers alike.