Prominent Nigerians gathered in Lagos on Friday, April 17, to celebrate former Inspector-General of Police Musiliu Smith, who marked his 80th birthday at a well-attended ceremony that drew senior officials, security leaders, business figures, and long-time associates.
Speakers at the event, themed Accolades for a Quintessential Patriot and held at the Federal Palace Hotel, described the retired police chief as a disciplined officer and committed public servant whose influence on national security institutions has endured beyond his years in office.
Representing the Lagos State Government, Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat praised Smith’s professional legacy, noting that his leadership in the police and subsequent roles in public service reflected a strong commitment to institutional development and respect for the rule of law.
He added that Smith remained active after retirement, contributing to security policy through mentoring and service at the Police Service Commission and the Lagos State Security Council.
Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Rilwan Disu described the celebrant as a respected mentor whose example continues to guide officers across generations.
He recalled receiving personal encouragement from Smith early in his career and said the retired police chief’s counsel contributed significantly to his professional growth, particularly during his time with the Lagos Rapid Response Squad.
Former Lagos State governor and ex-Minister of Works, Babatunde Raji Fashola, said Smith played a strategic advisory role in strengthening Lagos’ security framework at a time the state faced persistent violent crime.
According to him, consultations with the former IGP informed reforms that later supported the establishment of the Lagos Security Trust Fund and improved policing capacity across the state.
National Deputy President of the Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Adebayo Ibrahim Yusuf, described Smith as a principled leader whose impact extended beyond policing into education and community development.
He highlighted Smith’s role as the pioneer chairman of the Board of Trustees of Summit University, as well as his material support for the institution’s growth and infrastructure.
Former Ogun State governor Ibikunle Amosun said Smith’s tenure as police chief coincided with Nigeria’s transition to civilian rule in 1999, noting that his steady leadership helped the Force navigate a sensitive period in the country’s political history.
He also commended Smith’s reputation for supporting officers and their families beyond official responsibilities.
Other dignitaries present included Femi Okunnu; Rasaq Okoya and Folasade Okoya; former Lagos deputy governor Siliatu Ojikutu; retired Justice Kudirat Kekere-Ekun; Lagos State House of Assembly Speaker Mudashiru Obasa; President, Police Officers Wives Association (POWA), Mrs. Funlola Disu; former Minister of Defence Musiliu Obanikoro; former Inspectors-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, Suleiman Abba and Sunday Ehindero; former Chiefs of Naval Staff Jubril Ayinla and Awwal Zuberu Gambo; Senator Gbenga Ashafa; Assistant Inspector-General of Police Olohundare Jimoh; Lagos Commissioner of Police Fatai Tijani; Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Security Trust Fund Ayodele Ogunsan; and retired police chiefs Hakeem Odumosu and Bolaji Salami.
Several speakers described the celebration as recognition of a lifetime devoted to national service, noting that Smith’s influence continues to resonate within policing, governance, and community development circles.
