Experts Push for Overhaul of Private Security Laws, Back State Police “Experiment”

Published By Eloyi Matthew On Jun 14, 2026

Experts Push for Overhaul of Private Security Laws, Back State Police “Experiment”

By Matthew Eloyi

Security and policy stakeholders at the Nigerian People’s Strategic Conference (NPSC) and Defence Exhibition 2026 have called for urgent reform of Nigeria’s private security regulatory framework, warning that outdated laws are limiting the sector’s ability to respond to modern security threats.

Speaking at the closing session of the conference in Abuja on Saturday, co-convener and security studies expert, Dr Mohammed Sani Abubakar, said the gathering had successfully created a “platform for synergy” among private security firms, consultancy groups, government representatives, and non-state actors to align strategies on national security challenges.

According to him, the conference helped bridge communication gaps among key stakeholders and encouraged a more coordinated approach to security management in the country.

On the contentious issue of state policing, Dr Abubakar said he still had reservations, but noted that comments made by the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, had shifted his position toward a cautious willingness to allow the proposal to be tested.

“We should give it a try. If there are issues along the way, we can fine-tune it,” he said, suggesting a flexible, reform-oriented approach rather than outright rejection.

A major concern raised at the conference was the state of Nigeria’s private security legislation, which participants described as obsolete and unfit for present-day security realities. Dr Abubakar stressed the need for an urgent review of the law governing private security operations in the country.

He argued that Nigeria is currently confronting evolving security threats in 2026 while still operating under regulations drafted decades ago. He cited bureaucratic bottlenecks in accessing security tools such as drones, noting that importation processes involving security clearance through the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) and end-user certification requirements remain overly restrictive.

He contrasted this with the ease of access reportedly enjoyed by criminal groups, warning that such regulatory delays place legitimate operators at a disadvantage in combating insecurity.

“We are battling a 2026 crisis with a law made 30 years ago,” he said, adding that private security firms should be empowered to operate beyond limited roles such as guarding properties and providing escort services.

He further called for reforms that would enable Nigeria’s private security sector to function at a more advanced operational level, similar to frameworks in countries such as South Africa and the United States.

However, he emphasised that the push for reform is not intended to replace existing security agencies or undermine government institutions. Rather, he said, private security operators seek to complement state security efforts as stakeholders who are directly affected by national insecurity.

The conference concluded with a consensus on the need for stronger collaboration between public and private security actors, alongside legislative reforms to modernise Nigeria’s security architecture.