The Nigeria Police Force has directed the immediate withdrawal of all Police Mobile Force (PMF) officers attached to Very Important Persons (VIPs) across the country.

The directive, issued by the Assistant Inspector-General of Police in charge of the Mobile Police (AIG MOPOL), was communicated through a signal sent from the Force Headquarters in Abuja to all 84 Mobile Police Squadrons.

According to the message, the decision was prompted by “prevailing security concerns” nationwide. Squadron commanders were instructed to promptly recall their personnel from VIP protection assignments and other non-essential duties.

A signal obtained by SaharaReporters on Tuesday revealed that the withdrawn officers will be reassigned to bolster general security operations across the country. The force is also awaiting additional guidance on implementing the presidential order regarding the withdrawal of police from VIP escort roles.

Despite the recall from VIP duties, commanders were reminded to maintain security around critical national infrastructure, including oil facilities and banks. All squadron commanders were instructed to acknowledge receipt of the directive and ensure strict compliance.

The move follows a directive issued on Sunday by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu during a high-level security meeting in Abuja. Attendees included the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Shaibu; the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke; the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; and the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Tosin Adeola Ajayi.

Under the revised security arrangement, VIPs requiring personal protection must now request armed personnel from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).