In a bold move to address Nigeria's security challenges, President Bola Tinubu has ordered the immediate withdrawal of all police officers attached to Very Important Persons (VIPs) across the country. This directive aims to strengthen core policing functions and enhance security in local communities.
Security Meeting and Presidential Directive
The significant decision was made during a high-level security meeting held on Sunday, November 23, 2025, at the State House in Abuja. President Tinubu emphasized that the withdrawn police personnel would be redeployed to frontline duties, focusing on crime prevention and rapid response operations.
The security meeting featured key military and security leaders including Chief of Army Staff, Lt. General Waidi Shaibu; Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke; Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; and Director-General of the Department of State Services (DSS), Tosin Adeola Ajayi.
New Security Arrangements for VIPs
According to the new policy, VIPs who still require protection will now depend on well-armed operatives from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). This strategic shift allows the Nigeria Police Force to concentrate on their primary responsibilities of law enforcement and public safety.
Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed that security agencies are currently working out the implementation details to ensure a smooth transition. This includes reassigning police personnel and strengthening the NSCDC's VIP protection capabilities.
Addressing Long-standing Security Gaps
The presidential directive comes after years of public concern about the disproportionate deployment of police officers to wealthy individuals, politicians, and other privileged persons. Many police stations across Nigeria, particularly in remote areas, have been operating with minimal staff, making it difficult to effectively combat banditry, kidnappings, and other violent crimes.
To further bolster police capacity, President Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 30,000 additional police officers nationwide. The Federal Government is also collaborating with state governments to upgrade police training facilities and enhance the skills of both new and serving officers.
This measure represents a fundamental shift in Nigeria's security management approach, prioritizing community safety and frontline policing as central elements of the national security strategy. The changes are expected to take effect immediately, marking a new chapter in Nigeria's ongoing battle against insecurity.
