By Sumaila Ogbaje
Association of Licensed Private Security Practitioners of Nigeria (ALPSPN) says President Bola Tinubu’s declaration of state of emergency on national security is timely and reflective of the nation’s urgent security realities.
Retired Maj.-Gen. Elvis Njoku, Chairman, Interim Caretaker Management Committee of ALPSPN, gave the commendation while briefing newsmen on Wednesday in Abuja.
Njoku said Tinubu’s decision underscored his administration’s seriousness in tackling insecurity and redefining national security priorities.
He said the declaration had renewed confidence across the private security sector, adding that the industry was prepared to complement government efforts in safeguarding lives, property and critical infrastructure.
“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 said.
Njoku said the President’s ongoing reforms, including improved intelligence gathering, enhanced funding of security agencies and community-based policing initiatives, had already begun yielding results in several parts of the country.
According to him, the reduction in banditry in some regions and the improved coordination among the security forces demonstrate the impact of these measures, despite recent upsurge in some northern states.
He added that broader economic reforms aimed at reducing poverty and unemployment were also contributing indirectly to national security by addressing underlying social drivers of crime.
Njoku, however, urged the Federal Government to scale up investments in technology-driven security solutions, including drones, AI-powered surveillance systems, light helicopters and quick-response platforms for troops across the country.
“These technologies, integrated into existing security frameworks, will help preempt threats, track criminal elements and improve response times,” he said.
The ALPSPN chairman also called for strengthened public-private partnerships through incentives such as tax breaks, grants for training and easier access to government security contracts.
He said licensed private security practitioners possessed valuable expertise in risk assessment, surveillance and crowd management, and could contribute more effectively if integrated into national strategies.
Njoku further recommended enhanced community engagement, including localised security committees involving private security practitioners, traditional leaders and civil society groups.
He also advocated stricter control of small arms proliferation, improved border management, and mental health support for security personnel.
“These suggestions are not criticisms but collaborative ideas drawn from our frontline experiences. Their implementation would significantly bolster our national security architecture,” he added.
Njoku hailed 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 programmes for private guards.
According to him, such collaboration would create synergy between public and private security actors and boost confidence in national efforts to combat insecurity.
Njoku reaffirmed ALPSPN’s commitment to unity within the private security sector, urging practitioners to set aside differences and work together to professionalise 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 said.
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 remained committed to supporting the Federal Government and security agencies in building a safer and more prosperous Nigeria. (NAN)