The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has issued operational licences to 50 private security companies following a comprehensive vetting process aimed at strengthening the regulation of the private security sector.
At the presentation ceremony in Abuja, NSCDC Commandant General Dr Ahmed Audi revealed that over 200 applications were received, but only 50 companies met the strict criteria set by the Corps’ Private Guard Companies (PGC) Department. The licences were approved by the Minister of Interior, Hon. (Dr) Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, after thorough screening.
Dr Audi commended the Minister’s reform initiatives, particularly the digitalisation of private security registration, urging all practitioners to align with these measures. He noted that the private security industry plays a crucial role in national security and employment, creating about four million jobs while supporting conventional security forces.
The NSCDC boss also stressed the importance of intelligence gathering and collaboration between licensed firms, the Corps, and other security agencies. He advised company executives to prioritize the welfare of security guards, recruit qualified staff, renew licences promptly, and maintain professional standards.
The event featured a keynote lecture by Prof. Tyoor Frederick Terhemba, goodwill messages from Dr Chris Adigwu of the Association of Licenced Private Security Practitioners of Nigeria (ALPSPN), and Dr Omofoman Daniel of Tagged Technologies Ltd, alongside the symbolic handover of licences to new entrants.
