Abuja: The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Oyo State Command, has successfully trained 65 personnel from Private Guard Companies (PGCs) to enhance security in the state. This initiative aims to bridge the existing security gaps through improved collaboration between the NSCDC and private security firms.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the comprehensive 3-day training concluded on Thursday. The event was themed ‘The Role of Private Guard Companies in the Face of Current Security Challenges’ and also marked the inauguration of a Joint Task Force on Illegal Private Guard Companies, led by retired Capt. Bisi Ojebola. Speaking at the closing ceremony, NSCDC Commandant Augustine Padonu emphasized the importance of the training. Represented by Deputy Commandant DCC Timothy Patuola, Padonu noted that the nation’s security agencies cannot address all challenges alone and require the cooperation of PGCs and other stakeholders.
The training is expected to improve the capacity and service delivery of participants. Padonu encouraged attendees to contribute positively to the state’s security and remain vigilant, urging them to report any suspicious activities to authorities. He highlighted the critical role of PGCs in bridging security gaps and praised their collaboration, while advocating for further training of their personnel.
NSCDC PGC Head of Department, DCC Akintayo Akande, emphasized that private guarding is a vital component of Nigeria’s security framework. He called on the Association of Licenced Private Security Practitioners of Nigeria (ALPSPN) to continue collaborating with the NSCDC on information sharing and synergy to tackle emerging security threats. Akande also urged the industry to invest in training, technology, and ethics to enhance professionalism.
Mr. David Anangwureyi, a trainee from Treblem Security Company, expressed gratitude to the NSCDC for the impactful training. He committed to applying his newfound knowledge and training others. The training covered various topics, including PGCs as Grassroots Intelligence Network, Internal Security, Crime Prevention, Legal Boundaries and Human Rights, Forensic Support, School Safety, Report Writing, Intelligence Gathering, and Workplace Safety.