ABUJA/Nigeria: The Nigerian Senate has received a landmark bill sponsored by Senator Ned Nwoko seeking sweeping reforms in the regulation, licensing, and oversight of private security companies across the country, in a move aimed at integrating them more effectively into the national security framework.
The proposed legislation, titled A Bill for an Act to Make Provision for the Registration and Grant of Licence for the Use of Private Security Companies in Nigeria, is designed to complement the work of the military and improve national defence capabilities as Nigeria continues to grapple with evolving security threats.
Central to the bill is the establishment of the Nigerian Private Security Companies Registration Council, a statutory body that will regulate licensing, operations, and conduct of all private security outfits nationwide. The council will operate as a corporate entity with perpetual succession, the power to sue and be sued, and the authority to own and manage property. It will be domiciled in the presidency.
Under the proposal, the council will be chaired by the National Security Adviser and include the Chief of Defence Staff, Inspector General of Police, Attorney General of the Federation, and the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, who will serve as secretary. Six additional members—one from each geopolitical zone—will be appointed by the president, each with at least fifteen years’ experience in security, military affairs, or international humanitarian law. Members will serve a four-year term, renewable once, while vacancies must be filled within two months.
The bill outlines far-reaching objectives, including determining the scope of services private security companies may render, setting out transparent procedures for their selection and regulation, reducing pressure on traditional law enforcement agencies, ensuring public accountability, and enforcing compliance with international humanitarian laws. The president may define further objectives as required.
If enacted, the council will issue, renew, or revoke operational licences; maintain a national database of licensed operators; establish operational and licensing standards; approve weapons guidelines; set training benchmarks; and ensure financial viability for sustained operations. Major decisions of the council will require presidential approval, while quarterly reports will be submitted to both the president and the National Assembly.
A secretariat staffed by public service officers will support the council, with the defence ministry’s permanent secretary coordinating its activities. Staff allowances, discipline, and administrative procedures will follow established public service rules.
The proposed legislation also details financial provisions for the council, including a statutory fund derived from National Assembly appropriations, licence fees, and other operational revenues. The council’s accounts are to be audited annually, with reports submitted to the president no later than March 31 each year.
Perhaps the most consequential aspect of the bill is its strict criminal provisions. The operation of any private security or military-style outfit without a licence will attract life imprisonment for individuals, while corporate bodies will be dissolved and their directors similarly liable to life imprisonment. Only companies incorporated under the Companies and Allied Matters Act will qualify for licensing. All related offences will fall under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Federal High Court.
Senator Nwoko said the bill will introduce order, professionalism, and accountability to Nigeria’s rapidly expanding private security sector, arguing that a well-regulated industry can significantly bolster the armed forces and improve public safety. Once enacted, the legislation will be known as the Private Security Registration Act, 2024.
