Chief Albert Horsfall, the pioneer Director-General of the National Intelligence Agency (NIA), has died at the age of 84.
His death was announced by his son, Donald Horsfall, in a statement issued on behalf of the family.
According to the statement, the former intelligence chief died peacefully after a life dedicated to public service, family and community. The family described him as a patriot whose career was defined by integrity, dedication and commitment to Nigeria.
Horsfall was also remembered as one of the founding figures of Rivers State and an elder statesman who made significant contributions to the development of the state and the country.
The family said his courage, counsel and commitment to justice, peace and good governance earned him the respect of successive generations of leaders and citizens.
Read Also: stop-using-estate-development-to-mask-land-grabbing-etche-chairman-warns
Born on December 22, 1941, Horsfall began his career in Nigeria’s security services, serving in the Nigeria Police Force and later the Department of State Services.
He subsequently became the pioneer Director-General of the NIA, where he played a key role in establishing Nigeria’s external intelligence structure.
Beyond his intelligence career, Horsfall held several other public positions, including chairman of the defunct Oil Minerals Producing Areas Development Commission (OMPADEC) and chairman of the Rivers State Social Rehabilitation Committee.
He remained a prominent figure in the development of Rivers State and an influential elder statesman until his death.
The family said it was saddened by his passing but took solace in the legacy he left behind, noting that his memory would continue to inspire those who knew him and benefited from his knowledge, experience and compassion.
