Segun Atanda/
Former Inspector General of Police, Dr. Solomon E. Arase, has showered praises on one of his distinguished predecessors in a heartfelt tribute marking ex-IGP Aliyu Atta’s 88th birthday.
Describing the celebrant as “a trailblazer and patriot,” Arase said the retired Inspector General—who served as the 8th Indigenous head of the Nigeria Police Force—remained a towering figure in the history of policing in Nigeria.
“His legacy is etched in the golden annals of the Nigeria Police Force,” Arase stated. “He led with unwavering integrity and a clear sense of purpose, leaving behind a Force strengthened by his vision and guided by his wisdom.”
Arase, who himself served as the 18th Indigenous IGP, said the elder statesman inspired not only those who served under his command, but generations that followed.
“His calm resolve and dedication to nation-building lit the path for many of us,” he added. “I count myself fortunate to be among those who walked that path.”
Despite being long retired from active service, the former IGP’s impact continues to resonate, Arase noted, lauding his ongoing role as a mentor, statesman, and beacon of national service.
“As he turns 88, I join his family, friends, and admirers across the world in celebrating a life of remarkable achievement,” Arase said. “I pray the Almighty continues to bless him with good health, happiness, and peace.”
The tribute was capped with a note of pride: “The Nigeria Police Force—and indeed the entire nation—remain proud of his contributions.”
Here’s the full text of the tribute:
Tribute to a Trailblazer at 88
By Dr. Solomon E. Arase, CFR, NPM, FCIArB
Sir,
As you mark your 88th birthday today, I join your family, friends, and admirers across the world in celebrating a man whose name is etched in the golden annals of the Nigeria Police Force. Your legacy as the 8th Indigenous Inspector General of Police remains a beacon of professionalism, discipline, and service.
You led with clarity of purpose and unshakable integrity, leaving behind a Force enriched by your vision and steadied by your wisdom. Your calm strength and commitment to nation-building inspired not only those who served under you but also generations that followed in your footsteps, myself included.
Even in retirement, your stature as a statesman, mentor, and patriot has remained undiminished. On this auspicious occasion, I pray that the Almighty continues to preserve you in health, happiness, and peace.
Happy 88th Birthday, Sir. The Nigeria Police Force and the nation at large are proud of you.
Accept the assurances of my warm regards, please.
Dr. Solomon E. Arase, CFR, NPM, FCIArB
Inspector General of Police (Rtd)
