Police Redeploy Officers to Boost Security in Nigeria

The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has initiated a large-scale redeployment of officers previously assigned to VIP protection duties back to core community policing functions. This decision, communicated by Minister Moham Idri, aims to strengthen security measures in insecurity-prone areas, particularly in Kwara, Plateau, Benue, Kogi, Nasarawa, Niger, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The redeployment is part of Operation Savannah Shield, which seeks to protect vulnerable communities following a recent terrorist attack in Kwara that resulted in 75 fatalities. President Bola Tinubu condemned the attack, describing it as "beastly" and "heartless," and directed that full state resources be utilized against the perpetrators targeting civilians.

The President reiterated Nigeria's commitment to counter-terrorism operations being fully Nigerian-led while welcoming international cooperation in intelligence and surveillance. Enhanced police visibility around places of worship is also prioritized, with a focus on collaboration with local faith leaders to strengthen security architecture.