Eshiorameh Sebastian in Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has ordered the immediate withdrawal of all police officers currently assigned to provide security for Very Important Persons (VIPs) across the country.
The presidential directive was issued during a high-level security meeting held on Sunday in Abuja, which was attended by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt General Waidi Shaibu; the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke; the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; and the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Tosin Adeola Ajayi.
According to a statement from the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the withdrawn officers will be redeployed to concentrate on core police duties.
This move is aimed at addressing the critical shortage of police personnel in many parts of Nigeria, particularly in remote areas, which has hampered the force’s ability to protect citizens effectively.
“Henceforth, police authorities will deploy them to concentrate on their core police duties,” the statement read.
The Presidency has established an alternative security arrangement for VIPs who still require protection. Such individuals are now expected to request well-armed personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
This radical policy shift is part of President Tinubu’s broader strategy to boost police presence in communities amid the nation’s ongoing security challenges. The statement noted that “President Tinubu is desirous of boosting police presence in all communities.”
To further strengthen the police force, the President has already approved the recruitment of 30,000 additional officers.
The federal government is also collaborating with state governments to upgrade police training facilities nationwide.
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