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Minister of State for Police Affairs, Imaan Suleiman-Ibrahim, disclosed that the police high command would implement President Bola Tinubu’s directive to withdraw police personnel from VIP security duties and develop a community policing strategy.

The announcement was made during a two-day management retreat at the Ministry of Police Affairs. Suleiman-Ibrahim emphasized the critical juncture the Nigeria Police Force and the Ministry of Police Affairs find themselves in, currently grappling with the consequences of decades of neglect hindering their ability to fulfill their constitutional mandate. She added that the ministry was committed to aligning its efforts with the president's vision for a renewed, highly effective NPF.

Suleiman-Ibrahim stressed the need for the Police Inspectorate Department to evolve its operations, focusing on robust monitoring, evaluation, accountability, and learning. She highlighted the importance of reports being factual, practical, and evidence-based, serving as critical tools for enhancing police performance.

The department should champion the review of the curriculum of training institutions to ensure they reflect the evolving landscape of law enforcement, incorporating contemporary practices and international standards. She further urged the Police Service Department to optimize administration, update policies and procedures, and foster the adoption of cutting-edge technology. The department should lead efforts to evolve an intelligence-led, technology-driven, inclusive, and community-based police force in Nigeria.

Regarding the Planning, Research, and Statistics Department, Suleiman-Ibrahim encouraged it to 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.

Suleiman-Ibrahim reiterated the key mandates, including developing and implementing a harmonized police reform report, amending the Police Act, executing the president’s directive on the withdrawal of police personnel from VIP security duties, and developing a community policing strategy. She emphasized the transformative nature of these initiatives in enhancing internal security in Nigeria.

Meanwhile, in June, it was reported that following the establishment of the 40,000-man Special Intervention Squad, the Inspector General of Police, Olukayode Egbetokun, announced plans to withdraw Police Mobile Force personnel from VIP escort/guard duties. Egbetokun, during a meeting with Squadron leaders and Tactical Commanders at the Force Headquarters, stated that the move aimed to allow the police to reclaim its place in the ‘internal security architecture’ of the country.

However, while clarifying the misunderstanding regarding the IG’s directive concerning the proposed withdrawal of the Police Mobile Force from specialized escort and services for VIPs, the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, stated that the NPF did not intend to strip VIPs (who are legally and statutorily entitled to police escorts) of their security details. He emphasized that doing so would be unsafe and counterproductive.

Adejobi clarified, “Get the message right: We understand that there has been some misunderstanding regarding the directive of IGP Olukayode Egbetokun about withdrawing members of the Police Mobile Force Unit from Specialized Escort and Services for VIPs. It’s crucial to provide clarifications to address this.

“First and foremost, let us be clear: at no point did the Force intend to strip VIPs (who are legally and statutorily entitled to Police escorts) of their security details. Doing so would be unsafe and counterproductive. Instead, the objective is to reassign the withdrawn PMF personnel to the recently established Special Intervention Squad.

“For those who genuinely require specialized police escorts, this vital service will continue to be provided by other units of the Force, such as the Special Protection Unit. However, individuals who do not fall within and enjoy the legal framework for such security details would strictly be screened, and their applications thoroughly assessed for consideration if necessary.

“To eliminate any misunderstandings, it’s crucial to clarify that the withdrawal of Police Mobile Force personnel does not equate to a blanket ban on all Police Officers from providing VIP escort services. This withdrawal pertains specifically to PMF personnel, who are just one unit within the broader Police Force.

“We encourage everyone to read the full contents of our press statements rather than giving headlines whimsical meanings and spreading distorted information. For a comprehensive understanding of this matter, we strongly recommend referring to our press releases dated June 29, 2023, July 10, 2023, and July 24, 2023. These statements provide a clear and accurate perspective on this directive.”