Private Security Company License and Registration in Nigeria

INTRODUCTION

In Nigeria, the establishment and regulation of private security guard companies are governed by the Nigerian Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC). The process for registering a security guard company in Nigeria begins with the registration of a private limited liability company.

As the demand for private security services increases, driven by the needs of individuals and corporate organizations seeking additional protection beyond what is provided by public security forces such as the Nigerian Police Force and the NSCDC, there is a clear framework and set of requirements for setting up and licensing private security firms in Nigeria.

Key Steps for Setting Up a Private Security Company in Nigeria:

1. Company Registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC):

To commence a private security company in Nigeria, you must first register a company with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC). This company must have a minimum Issued share capital of N10,000,000 (Ten Million Naira).

2. Licensing by the NSCDC:

The NSCDC is responsible for the licensing, monitoring, and supervision of private security companies in Nigeria, as mandated by Section 3 of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps Act No. 2 of 2003.

Requirements for Registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC):

1. Submission of two proposed names for the private security company.

2. Provision of the address of the private security company.

3. Specification of the objectives of the private security company.

4. Details of two directors and shareholders of the company, including copies of their identification cards (National passport, National Identity card, Driver’s license, or Voter’s card).

5. Phone numbers, email addresses, and residential addresses of the two directors and shareholders.

Requirements for Obtaining a Private Security License from the NSCDC:

1. Submission of an application for a private guard license addressed to the Commandant General.

2. Evidence of company registration with a minimum authorized share capital of N10,000,000 and a minimum of three directors, one of whom must be a retired military officer.

3. Certified True Copies (CTC) of the Memorandum and Articles of Association (2 copies).

4. Photocopies of the certificates of incorporation (2 copies).

5. Payment of prescribed fees.

6. Tax Clearance Certificate.

7. Statement of account.

8. Letter from a legal adviser.

9. Letter from an auditor.

10. Proposed training program.

11. Proposed salary structure.

12. Veterinary certificate (optional).

13. Personal History Statement (PHS) forms at N100,000 each for all directors.

14. Credentials of directors (2 copies) to be attached with the PHS form.

15. Letter from bankers.

16. Eight passport photographs for each of the directors.

17. Eight full photographs (postcard size 5 x 7 inches) of each director with a white background, five fingerprints, and signature signed at the back of the postcard in the presence of NSCDC officers.

18. Photocopy of the signature page of the directors' international passport, National ID Card, or Driver’s License stapled at the back cover of the file jacket.

19. The PHS form must be fully completed, with "Nil" or "Not Applicable" stated where necessary, ensuring no column is left unfilled.

20. Attestation letters from referees for each director.

21. A sample uniform with a photograph of a guard in uniform (2 copies). All uniforms and accoutrements must not resemble any government agency or other private guard companies.

Fees:

1. Application fee of N500,000.

2. Licensing fees based on the category of license:

- Category A: For companies with more than 3,000 guards, an additional license fee of N3,000,000.

- Category B: For companies with up to 3,000 guards, a license fee of N2,500,000.

Important Considerations:

- A private security company cannot commence operations until it has been granted a license by the NSCDC. Commencing operations as Private Security Company without first registering with the Corporate Affairs Commission and subsequently obtaining License from the NSCDC is an offence created by Statutes.

- The minimum authorized share capital for a private security company or consultant must be at least N10,000,000.

Adhering to these detailed procedures and requirements is crucial for the successful establishment and operation of a private security company in Nigeria.

For expert guidance and assistance with the registration process, legal compliance, and obtaining necessary licenses, feel free to consult any Expert of your Choice.

J.I. Eze, Esq.

Principal Partner, KJ Consult

09015477340

WhatsApp - 2348132980531