President Bola Tinubu has directed the high command of the Nigeria Police Force to withdraw all police personnel from VIP security duties.

The minister of state for police affairs, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, disclosed this on Monday during a two-day management retreat at the ministry, vowing that the police leadership will execute the president’s order while also developing a community policing strategy, amongst others.

The minister admitted that the Police Force and the ministry of police affairs are at a critical juncture and are struggling with the consequences of decades of neglect that have hindered their ability to fulfil their constitutional mandate.

She, however, expressed the ministry’s commitment to align its efforts in order to actualise the president’s vision for a renewed, highly-effective NPF.

Ms Suleiman-Ibrahim said, “The Police Inspectorate Department, in particular, should evolve its operations to focus on robust monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning. Reports must be factual, practical, and evidence-based and serve as critical tools for enhancing police performance. It must champion the review of the curriculum of the training institutions to ensure they are reflective of the evolving landscape of law enforcement, incorporating contemporary practices and international standards.

“The Police Service Department has multifaceted responsibilities and must rise to the occasion by ensuring administrative optimization, making sure that relevant policies and procedures for the police are in place and up to date while also fostering the adoption of cutting-edge technology. It must be at the forefront of efforts to ensure we evolve an intelligence-led, technology-driven, inclusive, and community-based police force in Nigeria.

“The Planning, Research, and Statistics Department must position itself 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 will play a vital role in shaping evidence-based strategies for the Nigerian Police Force.

“As you are aware, our key mandates include developing and implementing a harmonized police reform report, amending the Police Act, executing Mr President’s directive on the withdrawal of police personnel from VIP security duties, and developing a community policing strategy, amongst others. We must not see these mandates as mere tasks but as transformative initiatives that can enhance internal security in Nigeria.”

Recall that the Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, had during a meeting with squadron leaders and tactical commanders at the Force Headquarters in June, announced plans to withdraw Police Mobile Force personnel from VIP escort/guard duties following the establishment of the 40,000-man Special Intervention Squad.

According to the police boss, the move was to allow the police to take back its place in the ‘internal security architecture’ of the country.