NSCDC Defends VIP Escort Mandate Amid Manpower Concerns

The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has defended its mandate in response to concerns regarding manpower as it undertakes VIP escort duties. This follows President Bola Tinubu's directive to former Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun to withdraw police escorts for VIPs, directing that such protection be provided by the NSCDC.

Critics, including security analyst Chidi Omej, have raised alarms about the potential strain on NSCDC personnel, warning that the growing demand for VIP protection could undermine the agency's primary responsibility of safeguarding national assets. NSCDC spokesperson Babawal Afolabi dismissed these concerns, clarifying that personnel assigned to VIPs belong to a distinct unit within the agency, which operates under its own standards and procedures.

Afolabi emphasized that the NSCDC remains committed to its core mandate while ensuring that personnel are not overstretched through mandatory rotation and relief schedules. The agency's command, led by Prof. Ahm Audi, has also mandated strict disciplinary actions against personnel engaged in non-professional duties.