Amanze ChinonyeThe Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has issued operating licences to 28 newly approved private security guard companies as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen national security and deepen community-level surveillance.
The licences were presented on Thursday, 24 July 2025, at the Corps’ National Headquarters in Abuja, by the Commandant-General of the NSCDC, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, who was represented by the Deputy Commandant General in charge of Technical Services, DCG Zakari Ningi.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelWhile addressing the newly licensed firms, DCG Ningi, on behalf of the Commandant-General, emphasised that private security outfits are crucial stakeholders in the nation’s security architecture and must operate with the highest standards of vigilance and professionalism.
“Security is no longer a government-only business,” Dr. Audi noted in his address. “You are now key players in safeguarding lives and property. Intelligence gathering, vigilance, and rapid response must be at the core of your operations.”
He reiterated the Corps’ commitment to regulatory enforcement, warning that licences would be withdrawn from any company that violates the Private Guard Companies Act, breaches ethical standards, or compromises public trust.
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The Commandant-General also challenged the new operators to invest in personnel training, surveillance technology, and ethical conduct as the NSCDC continues to reposition the private security industry as a critical ally in Nigeria’s fight against insecurity.
This licensing round brings the total number of approved private security companies in Nigeria to over 1,200, signaling the increasing reliance on private sector partnerships to combat crimes such as kidnapping, terrorism, and infrastructure vandalism.
“You are not just guarding buildings,” Dr. Audi emphasized. “You are part of a broader national strategy to protect citizens and support law enforcement agencies with actionable intelligence.”
The NSCDC says it will continue to vet, train, and monitor private security providers while working closely with the Ministry of Interior and other stakeholders to elevate standards and ensure public confidence in their operations.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
