In a sweeping reform aimed at restoring the operational integrity of the Police Mobile Force (PMF), the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olukayode Adeolu Egbetokun, has ordered the immediate withdrawal of PMF personnel from unauthorized assignments, particularly VIP escort and guard duties.
The directive was announced during a conference with PMF Squadron Commanders at the Force Headquarters in Abuja on Tuesday.
The IGP, who described the widespread deployment of Mobile Police officers to private individuals and non-essential VIPs as a misuse of national security resources, said the move is part of a broader strategy to strengthen internal security and return the PMF to its core mandate.
“For too long, we have allowed our elite tactical unit to be diverted from its primary role of responding swiftly to riots, emergencies, and violent threats,” Egbetokun said. “The time has come to restore discipline and reestablish the PMF as a strike-ready force that serves public, not private, interests.”
Effective immediately, Mobile Police officers deployed without official approval for VIP protection will be withdrawn. The IGP stressed that PMF Commanders will be held accountable for any unauthorized deployments under their jurisdiction.
As part of the reorganization, the Force will implement quarterly training programs focusing on ethics, professionalism, and operational readiness. Fully equipped, combat-ready units will also be maintained on standby across all squadrons for rapid tactical support nationwide.
“The misuse of PMF personnel has not only weakened the unit’s capacity but also created gaps in our national security framework. We are fixing that,” the police chief stated.
IGP Egbetokun further reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to accountability, discipline, and human rights. He also unveiled plans for new leadership strategies and capacity-building efforts that align with global best practices.
The police chief extended gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his support, and acknowledged the role of international partners in boosting the Force’s technical and training capabilities.
He urged all PMF commanders to embrace the reforms as both a professional and moral responsibility, adding, “Our duty is to the nation and its people—not to privilege or power.”