At 76, Sir Mike Mbama Okiro is not just a retired police officer — he is a living symbol of Nigeria’s long, bumpy journey towards law, order, and reform.
From chasing criminals in the tough streets of Lagos to shaking up the entire Police Force as one of the country’s former Inspector General, of Police, Okiro’s life reads like a gritty Nollywood script — but with real impact, real reforms, and a legacy that still echoes in the corridors of power and justice.
Born on 24 July 1949, Sir Mike Mbama Okiro recently celebrated his 76th birthday on 24 July 2025, marking a milestone rooted in strength, dignity, and dedication. Hailing from Oguta in Imo State and originally from Egbema in Rivers State, Okiro proudly became the first ethnic Igbo to serve as Nigeria’s Inspector General of Police, a post he held from 2007 to 2009.
Sir Mike joined the Nigeria Police Force in August 1977, rising swiftly through the ranks thanks to exceptional leadership and reformist zeal. His early work in Lagos as Area Commander and Commissioner saw him decisively tackle area boys and restore order to Nigeria’s commercial hub.
Okiro introduced community policing, bolstered public–police relations through the launch of “THE DAWN” newspaper, and emphasised service with integrity. Welfare reforms under his watch included a Police Housing Scheme and salary improvements, alongside innovations such as police ATM/ID cards, bullet‑proof vans and bank security measures. He spearheaded national policies including the establishment of a Police Intelligence School, mandatory computer literacy training, and CCTV installations in major cities and bank branches. Internationally, Interpol commended his professionalism, while the Royal Geographical Society named him an “Icon of Security in Africa”.
Sir Mike retired on 24 July 2009, reaching the mandatory age of 60 and marking the end of a distinguished tenure.
In 2013, he was appointed Chairman of the Police Service Commission, overseeing promotions and discipline across the force until 2018. He continued writing and reflecting on policing in democracy, contributing several books including Policing Nigeria in a Democracy and Overcoming Security Challenges. He is actively involved in civic initiatives, co‑founding the Salute Nigeria Initiative and leading cultural‑investment efforts like the Nigerian‑German Expo in 2025.
Even today, Sir Mike remains an insightful voice on security issues. In May 2025, he noted: “Hardly any day passes without reports of violence… organized crime in Nigeria has become pervasive.” He urged for greater investment in training, equipment, community policing, and inter‑agency cooperation to tackle insecurity effectively. He also emphasises that security is a shared responsibility: every citizen has a role to play, not just the state.
Across his life and work, several qualities define Sir Mike:
Integrity & Vision: As one commentator noted, “the greatness of a man is not in how much wealth he acquired, but in his integrity and ability to affect those around him positively.
Resilience & Innovation: Credited by President Yar’Adua as “a resilient achiever who never believes in failure” who ushered in democratic-era policing.
People‑centred leadership: Vice-President Osinbajo called him “passionately committed to the welfare of the Police”, praising his reforms such as NHIS coverage, chaplaincy services, and housing schemes.
At 76, ir, Dr. Mike Mbama Okiro CFR, KSS, MNI, NPM stands as a towering figure in Nigeria’s service history: a reformer IGP, a compassionate leader, an intellectual and author, and a civic voice in security transformation. His legacy spans operational policing reforms, welfare improvements, public engagement, and critical thought leadership—continuing long after his uniform was laid aside.
Defining his very essence: a man of conscience, purpose and lasting impact.
