“Security is not a product, but a process.” — Bruce Schneier, Global Security Expert
The recent Presidential directive to withdraw policemen from VIP protection is one that appears progressive on the surface but is exceedingly difficult to implement in reality. While many Nigerians consider the decision a welcome development, it also raises serious concerns—particularly in a period of heightened insecurity across the country.
As a nation, we often attempt to solve long-standing systemic problems with abrupt, cosmetic measures. Such actions frequently create more complications than they resolve. The issue of VIP protection is a perfect example.
For years, not only the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) but also the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) have been heavily involved in providing personal protection to VIPs. Over time, this has evolved into a deeply entrenched culture, where having security personnel is perceived not only as a safety measure but also as a symbol of status, even in situations where no real threat exists.
At the same time, the arrangement has become a major financial avenue—not just for police officers seeking supplementary income (“extra hustle”) but reportedly even for sustaining certain internal police operations. The Police Protection Unit is widely known to be a significant revenue generator, though the flow of funds is neither audited nor transparently accounted for, much like many state security votes.
A sudden, unilateral withdrawal of VIP police escorts therefore risks creating new security challenges:
It affects the morale of officers who have come to depend on these earnings.
It exposes VIPs who genuinely face security threats.
It disrupts the livelihoods of police families who rely on this additional income.
This is why many Nigerians see the policy not just as abrupt, but potentially counterproductive.
A Structured Alternative: Licensed Private Security Protection
Before and after the signing of the Police Reform Bill in 2020, I consistently advocated for a more sustainable approach:
the licensing and regulation of Private Security Protection Companies (PSPCs) with a clear mandate for armed personal protection—similar to what exists in several countries such as South Africa, the United States, the United Kingdom, Israel, and Brazil.
In these nations, private security companies are well-trained, properly licensed, and regulated to provide bodyguard services, corporate security, and armed escort duties. This reduces the burden on the police and allows them to focus on their core competencies: law enforcement, crime prevention, and national security.
Nigeria can achieve the same. A properly regulated private protection sector would create thousands of jobs for:
Retired military personnel
Former police officers
NSCDC operatives
Trained private security professionals
Officers who prefer VIP protection roles—whether for financial or personal reasons—should be allowed to voluntarily exit the police and transition into private firms where such duties are legitimate and better organized. This will help the Nigerian Police Force reclaim its core mandate and dignity in society.
A Practical Transitional Plan
A transparent, well-structured transitional process can be implemented over a two-year period:
1. Licensing and training of qualified private security companies.
2. Phased redeployment of police officers currently engaged in VIP protection.
3. Optional transition for officers who prefer private VIP roles.
4. Clear regulation, auditing, and oversight of the private security sector.
5. Public communication to ensure Nigerians understand the purpose and benefits of the reform.
If Nigeria can entrust pipeline security to private firms—many owned by former militants—leading to billion-naira contracts, then ordinary Nigerians with genuine security backgrounds should also be empowered to build legitimate private security enterprises, not just ex-militant groups.
The goal is not merely to withdraw police from VIP assignments, but to build a professional, regulated system that enhances security, preserves officer morale, protects VIPs, and strengthens national stability.
God bless Nigeria.
Gatekeepers News is not liable for opinions expressed in this article, they’re strictly the writer’s
