Abuja: The Association of Licensed Private Security Practitioners of Nigeria (ALPSPN) has expressed strong support for President Bola Tinubu’s recent declaration of a state of emergency on national security, describing it as timely and reflective of the nation’s urgent security realities. Retired Maj.-Gen. Elvis Njoku, Chairman of the Interim Caretaker Management Committee of ALPSPN, commended this move while addressing newsmen in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Njoku emphasized that President Tinubu’s decision demonstrates his administration’s commitment to tackling insecurity and redefining national security priorities. He noted that the declaration has renewed confidence within the private security sector, highlighting the industry’s readiness to support government efforts in safeguarding lives, property, and critical infrastructure.
Njoku remarked, “Since assuming office, President Tinubu has shown unwavering commitment to addressing insecurity head-on. The declaration of a security emergency is a bold step that places security where it belongs, at the top of national priorities.” He further mentioned that the President’s ongoing reforms, such as improved intelligence gathering, enhanced funding of security agencies, and community-based policing initiatives, have already begun yielding positive results in various parts of the country.
Njoku pointed out the reduction in banditry in some regions and the improved coordination among security forces as evidence of these measures’ impact, despite a recent increase in incidents in some northern states. He also highlighted broader economic reforms aimed at reducing poverty and unemployment, which contribute indirectly to national security by addressing underlying social drivers of crime.
Furthermore, Njoku urged the Federal Government to increase investments in technology-driven security solutions, including drones, AI-powered surveillance systems, light helicopters, and quick-response platforms for troops nationwide. He argued that integrating these technologies into existing security frameworks would help preempt threats, track criminal elements, and improve response times.
The ALPSPN chairman called for strengthened public-private partnerships through incentives such as tax breaks, grants for training, and easier access to government security contracts. He emphasized that licensed private security practitioners have valuable expertise in risk assessment, surveillance, and crowd management, which could be more effectively utilized if integrated into national strategies.
Njoku also recommended enhanced community engagement, including localized security committees involving private security practitioners, traditional leaders, and civil society groups. He advocated for stricter control of small arms proliferation, improved border management, and mental health support for security personnel.
He clarified, “These suggestions are not criticisms but collaborative ideas drawn from our frontline experiences. Their implementation would significantly bolster our national security architecture.” Njoku praised the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) for its professionalism and its role in protecting critical national assets and regulating private security companies.
He called for deeper cooperation between ALPSPN and NSCDC, including joint training exercises, intelligence-sharing platforms, and updated certification programs for private guards. Njoku believes such collaboration would create synergy between public and private security actors and boost confidence in national efforts to combat insecurity.
Reaffirming ALPSPN’s commitment to unity within the private security sector, Njoku urged practitioners to set aside differences and work together to professionalize the industry. “A united ALPSPN is a formidable force capable of driving innovation, improving standards, and contributing significantly to Nigeria’s security and economic development,” he stated.
He encouraged members to actively participate in upcoming forums, workshops, and elections as part of efforts to strengthen the association and usher in a democratically elected leadership. Njoku assured that the association remains committed to supporting the Federal Government and security agencies in building a safer and more prosperous Nigeria.