Solomon Ehigiator Arase, born June 21, 1956, in Owan West, Edo State, is a respected retired Nigerian police officer with an exceptionally outstanding record in law enforcement and public service.
He joined the police in 1981 after earning a degree in Political Science from Ahmadu Bello University and went on to earn a Law degree from the University of Benin and a Master’s degree from the University of Lagos.
During his career, he served in key positions, including Commissioner of Police in Akwa Ibom and Principal Staff Officer to three Inspectors-General. Known for his dedication, intelligence, and concern for police welfare, he also led the Criminal Intelligence and Investigation Bureau before becoming the 18th Inspector-General of Police in April 2015.
As IGP, he introduced major reforms such as the Intelligence Response Team, which helped tackle serious crimes, and the Complaint Response Unit to address police misconduct. Even after retiring in 2016, he continued to serve the country through advisory and consulting roles.
In 2023, President Muhammadu Buhari appointed him Chairman of the Police Service Commission, where he worked to modernize recruitment and strengthen cooperation with the police.
Arase is widely celebrated worldwide wide as a reform-driven, principled leader who made lasting contributions to policing and public safety in Nigeria.
