The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has sealed seven Private Guard Companies (PGCs) for operating illegally in Abuja.

FCT Commandant Olusola Odumosu led an operational tour on Wednesday to shut down the defaulting security companies for various violations of operational standards.

The affected companies include CEWARA Security in Wuse 2, Most Bright Security, Security China, and Ebowise Security in Jabi. Others are Barumark Security in Wuye, Segad Security Protection Services in Prince and Princess Estate, and Prixair Security.

According to Commandant Odumosu, six of the companies were sealed for operating without licenses, while one was shut down for having an expired license. Additional violations included improper insignia, threats to national security and public interest, employment of guards without approval, and refusal to comply with licensing authorities.

Security Implications

Odumosu emphasized that the enforcement action was necessary to ensure internal security in the FCT, noting that some kidnapping cases and security breaches in the territory could be linked to the lack of proper vetting of security guards.

"Some of these operators of PGCs don't understand the implications of their actions to national security. Many of them sew uniforms for random people without having valuable background information about their staff," he stated.

The Commandant clarified that according to Nigerian law, non-indigenous security organizations are prohibited from operating in the country. He further explained that proper licensing requires companies to not only register with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) but also apply for operational licenses through the NSCDC.

"As the regulatory agency, there is a need to ensure compliance because according to the provision of the law, before you can operate a PGC, aside from registering with the Corporate Affairs Commission, you must also apply for a licence through NSCDC," Odumosu said.

The clampdown comes amid growing concerns about security challenges in the Federal Capital Territory and highlights the government's efforts to regulate private security operations as part of broader security measures.