ABUJA, Nigeria — President Bola Tinubu has doubled down on his order to withdraw police officers from VIP and VVIP security assignments, declaring during Wednesday’s Federal Executive Council (FEC), meeting that the directive is final and must be executed immediately.
“No Exceptions Without Clearance”
Tinubu warned ministers and top officials against resisting the new policy, insisting that only those with extraordinary security needs may seek temporary exceptions — and only with his direct approval via the Inspector General of Police (IGP).
He directed National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Minister of Police Affairs, Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, and IGP, Kayode Egbetokun to ensure full enforcement.
Police Must Return to Core Duty, President Says
The President argued that the country’s worsening security challenges require redeploying officers to their primary role: protecting ordinary citizens and vulnerable communities.
He stressed that VIP protection is not the responsibility of the police.
“The Civil Defence Corps will take over VIP protection. They are trained for this, and they are armed too,” President Tinubu stated, tasking Interior Minister, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo with coordinating the transition.
Security Architecture to Be Overhauled
Tinubu said the police will be mobilised more effectively to confront kidnapping, banditry, and terrorism, noting that the entire security structure is undergoing review to strengthen community protection.
While acknowledging that a small number of officials may require enhanced security due to exposure, he insisted these exceptions will be limited and strictly regulated.
Push for Ranching Reform Intensifies
Turning to agricultural security, President Tinubu instructed Vice President Kashim Shettima to rally governors behind the administration’s ranching reform — a key strategy to curb violent clashes between herders and farmers.
The President ordered Livestock Minister, Idi Muktar Maiha to begin mobilisation immediately, focusing on conflict-prone communities.
“We Must End This Conflict”
Tinubu emphasised that reviving grazing areas and establishing functional ranches will reduce deadly disputes, protect rural populations, and unlock new economic opportunities.
“We must eliminate this area of conflict and make livestock reform economically viable… The opportunity is there; let’s utilise it,” he said, reminding ministers that land-use decisions lie with state governments.
