The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has sealed seven Private Guard Companies (PGCs) for operating illegally in Abuja.

The action was carried out by NSCDC Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Commandant, Dr. Olusola Odumosu, during an operational tour yesterday in Abuja.

The sealed companies include CEWARA Security in Wuse 2, Most Bright Security in Jabi, Security China, and Ebowise Security, both also in Jabi. Additionally, Barumark Security in Wuye, Segad Security Protection Services in Prince and Princess Estate, and Prixair Security were sealed.

Odumosu reported that six companies were sealed for operating without licenses, while one was shut down for operating with an expired license.

He said the violations ranged from insignia issues, threats to national security, failure to register as a PGC, employment of guards without approval, and refusal to comply with licensing authority.

“Some of these operators of PGCs don’t understand the implications of their actions on national security.

“Many of them sew uniforms for random people without having valuable background information about their staff,” Dr. Odumosu said.

He emphasized that non-indigenous security organizations are prohibited under Nigerian law governing PGCs, and compliance is essential for national security.

Odumosu stated, “We as the regulatory agency, see the need to ensure compliance because according to the provision of the law, before you can operate a PGC, aside from registering with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC), you must also apply for a license through NSCDC.”

He further linked some recent kidnappings and security challenges in the FCT to the lack of proper profiling of security guards employed by these companies.

Odumosu warned that many PGC operators fail to understand the security implications of their practices, including improperly issuing uniforms to personnel without adequate background checks.

The Commandant said the NSCDC will continue routine operations to seal any defaulting PGCs as a deterrent.