Insecurity: Police Begin Withdrawal of Officers from VIP Duties
Policemen mount guard as members of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) and Civil Society Group stage a protest over the hardship facing the mass as a result of the removal of fuel subsidy by the government, in Ikeja, Lagos, Nigeria on Wednesday, August 2, 2023. (Photo by Adekunle Ajayi/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
In confirmation of President Bola Tinubu’s directive, the Nigeria Police Force has ordered the immediate withdrawal of all police personnel attached to Very Important Persons (VIPs) across the country. The force has directed them to return to their various bases with effect from Monday, 24 November 2025 (yesterday).
The order affects hundreds of police officers currently attached to governors, ministers, senators, top businessmen, traditional rulers, and other high-profile individuals who have long enjoyed personal police protection.
Sources within the Force say the move is part of ongoing efforts to reposition the Nigeria Police, free up manpower for core policing duties, and reduce the strain on operational resources.
The withdrawal is expected to significantly boost the number of officers available for general crime prevention, response, and community policing across the country.
