President Bola Tinubu has congratulated former Inspector-General of Police, Alhaji Musiliu Adeola Kunmi Smith, on his 80th birthday, describing him as a symbol of integrity, humility and professionalism in Nigeria’s policing history.
In a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Friday, Tinubu joined family members, friends and associates in celebrating the retired police chief, who marked the milestone on April 17, 2026.
The President noted Smith’s long years of service in the Nigeria Police Force, where he began his career in Enugu in 1972 as an Assistant Superintendent of Police before rising through the ranks to become Inspector-General of Police on May 29, 1999.
He also recalled his service as an instructor at the Police College, Ikeja, and as Divisional Police Officer in Mubi, Adamawa State, among other key postings.
Tinubu further highlighted Smith’s recall from retirement in 2018 by former President Muhammadu Buhari to serve as Chairman of the Police Service Commission, a position he held until 2022.
“Alhaji Smith’s service in the various capacities he found himself was hallmarked by honesty, integrity and strict professionalism,” the President said.
He added: “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.”
President Tinubu also described the former IGP as “a thorough-bred cop who brought respectability, discipline and dignity to the Nigerian Police Force.”
The President commended Smith’s continued dedication to the development of Lagos State and his commitment to the propagation of Islam since his retirement from service in 2002.
He prayed for more years of good health and continued service to Lagos State and the nation.
