Senator Wamakko Advocates Reduction of Soldiers Attached to Retired Generals

Senator Aliyu Wamakko of Sokoto‑North has urged a review of the number of soldiers assigned to retired military generals, describing the current deployment as excessive.

The senator made his remarks during a session at the National Assembly, which coincided with discussions over the recent directive to withdraw police protection from certain VIPs.

While expressing concern over the proposed withdrawal of security from active VIPs — warning that it could expose public officials to heightened risks of kidnappings and attacks — Wamakko argued that the allocation of military personnel to retired generals also requires reassessment.

“Instead, the number of military attached to retired generals, they are too many,” he said, emphasizing the need to optimize security resources.

The senator’s statement reflects broader worries about the management of security personnel in Nigeria, especially amid escalating violent crimes targeting prominent individuals and communities.

Lawmakers and security analysts have highlighted the need to balance protection for active public officials while rationalizing privileges extended to former military leaders.

Experts note that reducing the number of soldiers attached to retired generals could free up resources for frontline security operations, particularly in vulnerable regions.

However, the debate raises questions about how best to allocate limited security personnel without compromising the safety of key public figures.