Former lawmaker and Senator Shehu Sani has applauded President Bola Tinubu’s recent directive to withdraw police officers from Very Important Persons (VIP) protection duties, but cautioned that the policy may remain largely symbolic.
Speaking on X on Sunday, Sani described the move as a “good idea” and a timely policy response to Nigeria’s growing security challenges. He expressed concern, however, that without proper implementation, the plan might “begin and end up as a statement.”
President Tinubu instructed the redeployment of police personnel from VIPs to focus on core policing duties across the country, particularly in remote communities facing serious security gaps. The announcement came amid a series of high-profile abduction and security incidents nationwide.
Under the new arrangement, VIPs who require armed protection will now be expected to engage the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), freeing thousands of police officers to patrol communities and strengthen law enforcement presence.
Tinubu has also approved the recruitment of 30,000 additional police officers and is working with state governments to upgrade training facilities, signaling a broader effort to improve internal security and enhance public safety.
Sani’s warning highlights concerns over the consistent challenge of translating policy statements into effective security outcomes in Nigeria. Observers note that the success of the initiative will depend on strict enforcement, accountability, and adequate resources.
The withdrawal and redeployment policy represents one of the most significant adjustments to Nigeria’s internal security strategy in recent years, with potential long-term impacts on how law enforcement prioritises community protection versus personal security for elites.
