By Hosea Parah, Abuja
In a heartfelt tribute, Dr. Solomon Arase, the Chairman of the Police Service Commission and retired Inspector General of Police, expressed Nigeria’s everlasting gratitude towards Alhaji Aliyu Atta, GCON, on his 87th birthday. Alhaji Atta, also a retired Inspector General of Police and Chairman of the Body of retired IGPs, has made a profound impact on nation building.
Born on May 12th, 1937, Alhaji Atta had a distinguished career in the Nigeria Police Force and played a significant role in the growth of the institution. Dr. Arase praised him as a unifying figure for both retired and serving Inspectors General of Police, highlighting his exemplary leadership traits and unwavering commitment to a united Nigeria.
Dr. Arase revealed that Alhaji Atta actively encouraged education by promoting the rank and file who acquired additional qualifications while in service. Furthermore, he commended Alhaji Atta’s dedication to safeguarding welfarist policies within and outside the Nigeria Police Force.
According to him,one of Alhaji Atta’s notable achievements was the establishment of the Nigeria Police Force Community Bank, which has since evolved into the Nigeria Police Force Microfinance Bank. Dr. Arase credited his former boss for this initiative and acknowledged its significant impact. Additionally, Alhaji Atta played a pivotal role in the formation and launch of the Nigeria Police Veterans Foundation, an ambitious scheme aimed at ensuring the welfare of retired Police Officers.
Dr. Arase emphasized that the nation owes Alhaji Atta a tremendous debt of gratitude for his selflessness and commitment to a greater Nigerian nation built on the principles of the rule of law and unwavering service to the country. Alhaji Atta served as the Inspector General of Police from 1990, succeeding Alhaji Mohammed Gambo Jimeta, and was later succeeded by Alhaji Ibrahim Coomassie in 1992.
He said, the contributions of Alhaji Aliyu Atta have left an indelible mark on the Nigeria Police Force and the nation as a whole. As Nigeria celebrates his 87th birthday, his impactful legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.