Albert Horsfall, the pioneer director-general of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), has died at the age of 84.
Horsfall’s demise was announced in a statement released by his son, Donald Horsfall, on behalf of the family.
The family said Horsfall died “peacefully after a fulfilled and impactful life dedicated to God, family, community, Rivers State, and Nigeria”.
The family said during Horsfall’s lifetime, he served Nigeria with “uncommon dedication, integrity, and patriotism, leaving behind an enduring legacy of leadership, wisdom, and selfless service”.
“As one of the founding fathers of Rivers State and an elder statesman of national repute, Chief Horsfall made invaluable contributions to the growth and development of the State and the country,” the statement reads.
“His counsel, courage, and commitment to justice, peace, and good governance earned him the admiration of generations of leaders and citizens alike.
“While the family mourns this irreparable loss, we take comfort in the extraordinary life he lived and the indelible mark he left on the sands of time.
“His memory will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him and benefiting from his immense wealth of knowledge, experience, and compassion.”
Born on December 22, 1941, Horsfall served in the nation’s security services, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services (DSS).
Horsfall also served as chairman of the defunct Oil Minerals Producing Areas Development Commission (OMPADEC) and the Rivers state social rehabilitation committee.