Thousands of Police Officers Recalled from VIP Duties as NSCDC Takes over Security for Some VIPs

In a sweeping shift of Nigeria’s security posture, Kayode Egbetokun, the Inspector‑General of Police (IGP), announced on Thursday that 11,566 police personnel have been withdrawn from VIP protection duties following a directive from President Bola Tinubu. The redeployed officers will now be assigned to undeserved, vulnerable communities across the country — a move the IGP described as “not driven by sentiment, but necessity,” aimed at reinforcing front line policing where it is most needed. The IGP said the withdrawal will allow the police to “expand deployment into areas where policing input has the most meaningful public safety outcomes,” including rural and township security, enhanced patrols, investigations, and rapid response to emerging threats. He added that detailed implementation guidelines — covering processes, timelines and safeguards — will soon be issued to prevent misinterpretation or abuse, especially attempts by unscrupulous actors to exploit any ambiguity in the transition. With this withdrawal, VIPs seeking security protection are now expected to turn to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC). Some prominent Nigerians have already begun applications to the NSCDC for security cover. The policy reversal appears to mark a shift in priorities — from personalized security for a few, to broader public‑security coverage for the many. Critics and supporters alike will now watch closely to see if the redeployment translates into marked improvement in safety across communities long thought under‑protected.

| 2025-11-28 17:18:59