In the wake of the recent withdrawal of 11,566 policemen from individuals and private establishments nationwide, several high-profile Nigerians have begun making plans to seek alternative security arrangements through the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).
The directive—issued as part of an ongoing effort to redeploy police personnel back to core operational duties—has left many VIPs, business executives, and political figures without the official escorts they previously relied on.
Sources within the NSCDC confirmed an uptick in inquiries from affected individuals, noting that formal applications for protective services have already started coming in. The Corps is reportedly reviewing these requests in line with its mandate, which includes providing security for critical personalities and safeguarding public infrastructure.
Security analysts say the move could ease pressure on the overstretched police force while giving the NSCDC a more prominent role in VIP protection. However, they also note that the sudden shift may temporarily strain the Corps’ capacity as it evaluates how to deploy its personnel without affecting existing assignments.
Authorities maintain that the recall of policemen is aimed at strengthening community policing and improving national security efficiency.
As applications continue to surge, both agencies are expected to issue further guidance on how VIP protection will be managed going forward.
