Why FG wants to remodel private security guards, minister

From Isaac Anumihe, Abuja

Following the infractions committed by the private security guards, the federal government has promised to remodel them to make them conform with the international standard.

Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo made this known during a Private Security Industry Summit tagged: Redefining Security: “The Evolving Role of Private Security in a Challenging World “

Tunji-Ojo in a goodwill message delivered during the summit advised the Association of Licensed Private Security Practitioners of Nigeria (ALPSPN) to work harder to project an industry that would strengthen the nation’s security architecture.

In a statement, the security summit which took place in Lagos, was attended by top management officers of the Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), national executives and members of the Association of Licensed Private Security Practitioners of Nigeria (ALPSPN); high ranking officers of different security agencies, traditional rulers amongst others.

In his remarks, NSCDC Commandant General, Dr Ahmed Abubakar Audi stated the need to carry out major reforms that would rejig the law guiding the security industry, accreditation of training centres and improve training. Monitoring and licensing of security guard companies has become very necessary to enhance information and intelligence gathering which remains the bedrock of any security environment.

Audi noted that the recent inauguration of the “Private Security Sector Reform Committee” by the Minister of Interior has frankly reaffirmed the commitment of the Federal Government towards ensuring laudable achievements in the Security Sector.

The CG however charged the private security practitioners to justify the confidence reposed in them by the government and remain focused on the nation’s nation-building and development rather than physical gains.

Also speaking, the National President of the Association of Licensed Private Security Practitioners of Nigeria (ALPSPN), Dr Chris Adigwu lauded the Minister of Interior for the proactive measures put in place to support the NSCDC who has excellently regulated the security industry across the board.

He promised that the ALPSPN would continue to abide by the statutory regulations, warning that those operating quack and unregistered private security companies should desist or would be vehemently resisted and dealt with.