PRIVATE SECURITY OUTFITS AND INTERNAL SECURITY IN NIGERIA: AN X-RAY OF KINGS GUARDS NIGERIA LIMITED, ABUJA

Abstract

Provision of security is no longer the sole responsibility of the state and its institutions. Private security is essential to ensuring the security and safety of persons and property. The emergence of Private Security Outfits has presented states with a resource with great potential to contribute significantly to enhancing security. Private security outfits in Nigeria have, however, faced certain limitations to their capacities to effectively provide essential services. This work aims to examine the roles played by these outfits in combating crime in Nigeria, determine their limitations as it affects their roles, and offer recommendations in line with the findings the research. It adopted a quantitative/descriptive method of research, employing data sourced from primary and secondary sources. The primary data was derived from questionnaires administered to the staff of Kings Guards Nigeria Limited, Limited Abuja branch. Using the convenience sampling technique, a non-random number of 200 employees was chosen to be the sample population from a total population of 1,775 security personnel. These data was analysed and presented using descriptive statistical tools such as graphs, charts etc. It was observed from these data that respondents are aware of the immense contributions that these outfits could make in
combating crime and ensuring security in Nigeria. However, these contributions cannot yet be made because of certain external and internal impediments. The study recommends that there should be improved supervision, improved training, improved remuneration, improved equipment and license to carry arms, enforcement of registration and certification, and strengthening the cooperation with government law enforcement agencies.