The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has detained over 20 individuals linked to unlicensed private guard companies (PGCs) operating within the state’s metropolis. The action comes as part of a broader crackdown aimed at regulating the security sector and ensuring the safety of citizens.
Dr. Elijah Willie, the Commandant of the Enugu State Command of the NSCDC, confirmed the arrests in an interview on Sunday, revealing that the enforcement efforts have been intensified over the past three months. The detained individuals include operators of unlicensed security companies, employees of firms with unpaid fees, and some individuals impersonating registered PGC personnel.
Willie explained that the operation was in line with the Corps’ commitment to safeguarding lives and property in the state. He emphasized that it was crucial for private security firms to operate within the law and adhere to regulatory standards to ensure the safety of both individuals and institutions across the state.
“We’ve had over 20 arrests within the last three months. These include unlicensed operators, companies defaulting on their branch fees, and impersonators of registered personnel. It is important that the public understands the role of the NSCDC in regulating and ensuring that all private guard companies operate according to the law,” Willie said.
The rapid expansion of private security companies in Nigeria has led to concerns about the legality and professionalism of many of these firms. In Enugu, as in other states, an increasing number of private guards have been found operating without the proper licenses or without following established guidelines.
Many of these unlicensed operators have been linked to security breaches, including the unauthorized access to restricted areas, unregulated conduct, and, in some cases, violent incidents. This has raised concerns about public safety and the reliability of private security providers.
The NSCDC, as part of its mandate, is tasked with overseeing and regulating all private security companies in the country. This includes ensuring that the companies comply with the rules outlined in the Private Guard Companies Act. However, the growing number of unregistered security operators in Enugu and across the country has made it difficult to monitor and regulate the sector effectively.
In a bid to address these challenges, the NSCDC has stepped up its efforts, working closely with other law enforcement agencies and stakeholders in the private security sector. The goal is to create a more orderly and secure environment for both citizens and businesses.
To further address the challenges within the private security industry, the NSCDC has announced plans to host a stakeholders’ meeting on April 30, 2025. The meeting will bring together representatives from registered PGCs, law enforcement agencies, and government regulators to discuss ways to improve compliance and foster a better understanding of the regulatory framework.
According to Willie, the upcoming meeting will serve as a platform for stakeholders to address issues facing the industry, including the challenges of unlicensed operators, the enforcement of branch fees, and the need for greater cooperation between PGCs and law enforcement agencies.
“The PGCs Stakeholders’ Meeting is aimed at fostering mutual understanding, compliance, and improved regulation within the private security sector. We believe that by bringing together all the relevant stakeholders, we can find common ground and work towards a more secure and professionally run industry,” Willie stated.
The Commandant also highlighted that the meeting would be a crucial step in reinforcing the importance of lawful operation for private guard companies and enhancing their capacity to contribute to national security.
The NSCDC was established to provide a comprehensive framework for the protection of critical national assets, infrastructure, and lives and property across Nigeria. Under the NSCDC Act, the Corps has the responsibility to supervise, monitor, and regulate the activities of private security firms operating within the country.
One of the Corps’ key tasks is ensuring that PGCs comply with the standards set by the government, which include obtaining licenses, paying fees, and training personnel according to established protocols. The NSCDC also carries out regular inspections and assessments of private security firms to ensure they meet these standards.
In recent months, the NSCDC has faced increasing pressure to clamp down on illegal operators, who often evade the necessary registration processes. These unlicensed firms pose a significant risk to public safety, as they may lack the necessary training, equipment, and oversight to provide effective security services.
The NSCDC’s actions in Enugu reflect a growing nationwide effort to clean up the private security industry and restore order. Willie emphasized that the Corps will continue to carry out enforcement actions against illegal operators, ensuring that only those who meet the regulatory requirements are allowed to function in the state.
The rise of illegal private guard companies in Nigeria has become a pressing issue, as more people turn to private security services for protection. However, without proper oversight and regulation, there is a risk that unscrupulous operators will exploit the situation for personal gain, undermining the credibility of the entire industry.
In addition to the potential for crime, there is also the issue of professionalism. Licensed PGCs are expected to adhere to specific codes of conduct and operational standards, including background checks for employees, adequate training in security procedures, and the use of appropriate equipment. Unlicensed firms, however, are not subject to these checks, putting both the guards and the people they protect at risk.
The public has generally welcomed the NSCDC’s efforts to curb illegal private security operations. Many residents and business owners in Enugu have expressed their support for the Corps’ crackdown on unlicensed security firms, citing the need for more accountability and professionalism in the industry.
“Private security has become a necessary service, but it is very important that we can trust the people who are protecting us. If they are not properly trained or registered, then what’s the point?” said one local business owner in Enugu.
As the NSCDC continues its operations and prepares for the upcoming stakeholders’ meeting, it is clear that ensuring the regulation and professionalization of private security firms will be a key priority in the coming years. With the increasing demand for security services, the need for a structured and legally compliant private security sector has never been more urgent.
