The Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has emphasized the need for the regulation and professionalization of the private security sector in Nigeria.
According to the Minister, “the private security sector is an emerging sector, not just in Nigeria but across the globe.” He noted that with a country of over 200 million people, there is a need for private security to complement the efforts of the government.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo made the remarks while hosting a delegation from DCAF Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance, Switzerland, led by Head, Business and Security Division ,Jean-Michel Rousseau, in Abuja.
He said, the motivation for opening up the space for private security is not about the proliferation of companies, but about the quality of services provided. He emphasized the need for private security companies to be promoted by people of value and competence.
The Minister also highlighted the importance of technology in the private security sector, citing the use of CCTVs, and other equipment. He talked on the need for regulators to understand that it is not about the number of companies licensed, but about the quality of those companies.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo assured that the Ministry is committed to working with stakeholders to build a robust system for the private security sector. He noted that the Ministry is already collaborating with international organizations to support governance reform processes in the security sector.
The Minister’s call for regulation and professionalization of the private security sector is a significant step towards enhancing national security and providing quality employment opportunities for Nigerians.
Earlier in his remarks, the leader of the delegation, Jean-Michel Rousseau said DCAF Geneva Centre for Security Sector Governance and the African Law Foundation (AFRILAW ) recently co-organized a workshop for legislators from the ECOWAS region. He said the workshop focused on issues of private security regulation from the parliamentary side.
According to him , the event was part of DCAF’s efforts to support governance reform processes in the security sector. As a Swiss foundation, DCAF provides advisory services and legal expertise to partner countries, including Nigeria.
He said the workshop highlighted the growing role of private sectors in security and the need for effective regulation. Mr. Rousseau further said with the presence of private security companies, there is the need to ensure they operate under a legal framework that gives priority to national security and public safety.