President Bola Tinubu has congratulated former Inspector-General of Police, IGP Alhaji Musiliu Smith, on his 80th birthday.
In a statement issued by the Presidential Spokesperson, Mr Bayo Onanuga, the President joined family, friends, and associates to celebrate the remarkable police officer for his integrity, humility, professionalism, and outstanding contributions to the nation and the police force.
President Tinubu lauded Alhaji Smith’s service in various capacities, saying it was hallmarked by honesty, integrity, and strict professionalism.
“After completing a Master’s degree programme in Strategic Studies at the University of Ibadan, such was his reputation and the high standing with which he was held that he became a member of the Provisional Ruling Council in 1998.
“He was a thorough-bred cop who brought respectability, discipline and dignity to the Nigerian police force,” the President said.
President Tinubu also commended Smith’s undying commitment to the development of Lagos and the propagation of Islam, to which he has dedicated his life since retiring from the force in March 2002.
The President wished the former IGP many more years of good health and continued meaningful service to Lagos and Nigeria.
Smith joined the Nigerian Police Force in Enugu in 1972 as an Assistant Superintendent. He later served as an instructor at the Police College, Ikeja, and as a Divisional Police Officer in Mubi, Adamawa State.
He served in various capacities in the force until he reached the zenith as Inspector-General of Police on May 29, 1999.
In 2018, former l President Muhammadu Buhari recalled Smith from retirement to serve as Chairman of the Police Service Commission, a body that oversees police appointments, promotions, and discipline.
He resigned from the position in 2022.