President Bola Tinubu has directed all ministers and senior government officials to obtain police escort approval from him before requesting police officers for official assignments. He issued the order on Wednesday during the Federal Executive Council meeting at the State House, Abuja.
Tinubu said poor coordination often creates security gaps when officers are reassigned without proper replacements. Because of this, he insisted that agencies must strengthen planning and communication.
Tinubu Warns Against Unauthorised Escort Requests
The President instructed the Inspector-General of Police to enforce the new rule without delay. He said any official facing a security concern must inform the IGP, who will then seek presidential police escort approval on their behalf.
He also asked the Minister of Interior to work with the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps to fill security gaps created when police officers are deployed for special duties.
Security Agencies Ordered to Review Current Structure
Tinubu directed the National Security Adviser and the DSS to review the nation’s security framework and recommend adjustments. He said rising threats across the country make immediate action necessary.
He added that forest guards may also need stronger support, including weapons, to help protect communities more effectively.
Livestock Reform Added to National Security Agenda
Tinubu instructed Vice-President Kashim Shettima to work with the National Economic Council on reviving grazing reserves and expanding ranch development. He noted that ending herder–farmer clashes requires turning usable land into productive livestock hubs driven by the states.
“We must eliminate conflict and turn livestock reform into economic development,” he said.
