By Dr. Nafisat Makinde
The Nigeria Police Force has withdrawn 11,566 officers from VIP security duties and redeployed them to strengthen nationwide policing operations, the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, announced on Thursday.
The IGP made the disclosure during a high-level strategic conference with senior officers at the Peacekeeping Hall, Force Headquarters, Abuja, noting that the action is in strict compliance with the Presidential Directive ordering the withdrawal of police personnel attached to very important personalities.
In a statement disclosed by CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, ANIPR, MIPRA, Force Public Relations Officer, Force Headquarters, Abuja, the withdrawn officers have been reassigned to state commands for immediate deployment to streets, highways, markets, motor parks, residential areas, and other public spaces ahead of the yuletide season to deter crime and reassure citizens of their safety.
The IGP issued a series of operational directives to all Commissioners of Police and tactical commanders, mandating them to reinforce intelligence-gathering mechanisms, deepen community policing through sustained citizen engagement, ensure lawful and professional protection of vulnerable communities, and scale up visible policing nationwide as end-of-year activities peak.
Egbetokun commended senior officers for their dedication and sacrifices, stressing that the withdrawal of VIP escorts will significantly boost manpower availability for frontline duties and enhance public safety across the country.
Reaffirming the unwavering commitment of the Nigeria Police Force, the IGP pledged that the Force will continue to intensify all necessary measures to ensure a safe, secure, and peaceful environment for every citizen, resident, and visitor throughout the festive period and beyond.
