The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Federal Capital Territory Command (FCT) has sealed off seven illegal private security companies operating in Abuja.
The crackdown, led by FCT Commandant, Dr. Olusola Odumosu targeted companies flouting national security regulations.
Six firms were shut down for operating without licenses, while one had been operating with an expired license.
The affected companies include CEWARA Security at Wuse 2, Most Bright Security at Jabi, Security China and Ebowise Security also in Jabi, Barumark Security located at Wuye, Segad Security Protection Services at Prince and Princess Estate as well as and Prixair Security.
Odumosu who was visibly concerned, questioned the intentions of those claiming to protect lives while blatantly disregarding the law.
“If you truly want to secure the nation, why operate illegally? Gone are the days when such practices were ignored. Enough is enough,” he declared.
“This will not continue if we must truly safeguard the nation—especially the Federal Capital Territory.”
He cited alarming lapses among illegal operators, including the hiring of personnel that were not scrutinised and distribution of security uniforms to unknown individuals, warning that such practices could aid criminal activities.
“These actions are threats to national security. Many of these firms lack proper structure, fail to register, and put the public at risk by bypassing due process,” Odumosu stated.
According to him, all private guard companies must register with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC) and obtain an operational license from the NSCDC.
He maintained that foreigners are strictly prohibited from owning or operating security firms in Nigeria, stressing that foreign ownership or operation of such companies remains illegal under the Nigerian law.
Odumosu attributed some cases of kidnapping and insecurity in the FCT to unregulated guard services, vowing continuous crackdowns to enforce compliance and restore public trust.
The FCT commandant of the NSCDC vowed to sustain routine checks and enforce strict penalties to deter illegal operations in the capital.
“We will not stop until all illegal operations are stamped out. This is about national security, and we are drawing the line.”
