In a move aimed at strengthening grassroots security, President Bola Tinubu has directed the withdrawal of police officers currently assigned to protect Very Important Persons (VIPs) across Nigeria.
A statement by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga confirmed that police personnel will now focus on their primary duties of safeguarding communities. VIPs seeking protection will be advised to request well-armed personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The directive was issued following a security meeting on Sunday in Abuja, attended by the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke; Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun; and Director-General of the Department of State Services, Tosin Adeola Ajayi.
“Many parts of Nigeria, particularly remote areas, have limited police presence, making it challenging to protect citizens effectively,” the statement noted. “This measure will allow police officers to concentrate on defending communities amid current security challenges.”
The presidency also highlighted plans to recruit 30,000 additional police officers and collaborate with state governments to upgrade training facilities nationwide.
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