Tinubu's Directive: Policemen Withdrawn from VIPs
In a significant move toward reshaping security protocols, President Bola Tinubu has directed the withdrawal of police personnel from VIP security duties. Minister of State for Police Affairs, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, recently unveiled plans to execute this directive during a two-day management retreat. The overarching goal is to realign the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) with a renewed vision, overcoming decades of neglect.
Suleiman-Ibrahim emphasized the critical juncture at which the NPF and the Ministry of Police Affairs find themselves, grappling with the consequences of neglect that have hindered their constitutional mandate. The commitment expressed by the ministry underscores the ambition to contribute to the realization of the President's vision for a highly effective NPF.
The envisioned transformation involves multifaceted efforts, as outlined by Suleiman-Ibrahim. The Police Inspectorate Department is urged to focus on robust monitoring, evaluation, and accountability. Reports are expected to be factual, practical, and evidence-based, serving as critical tools to enhance police performance. A call for a comprehensive review of the training curriculum ensures it reflects evolving law enforcement landscapes, incorporating contemporary practices and international standards.
The Police Service Department is challenged to ensure administrative optimization, keeping policies and procedures up to date. The aim is to foster the adoption of cutting-edge technology, advancing toward an intelligence-led, technology-driven, inclusive, and community-based police force in Nigeria.
The Planning, Research, and Statistics Department are positioned as a knowledge hub, providing historical insights and conducting cutting-edge research to inform policymaking. By fostering partnerships with renowned research institutions and staying current with global trends, this department aims to play a vital role in shaping evidence-based strategies for the NPF.
Amid these transformations, the withdrawal of Police Mobile Force personnel from VIP escort duties stands out. This move is not a blanket ban on all police officers providing VIP escort services but specifically concerns the reassignment of Police Mobile Force personnel to the recently established Special Intervention Squad. The objective is to optimize internal security without compromising the safety of individuals legally entitled to police escorts.
As the Nigerian Police Force undergoes these transformative initiatives, the focus remains on ensuring the safety and security of the nation while adapting to contemporary challenges. The withdrawal from VIP security duties signals a strategic shift, prompting a comprehensive reevaluation of security protocols. The journey toward a more effective and community-centric police force in Nigeria is underway.
