The federal government in Nigeria has sought to reform Nigeria’s private security industry with the launch of the International Code of Conduct Association (ICoCA) Nigeria Chapter, a framework aimed at strengthening regulation, promoting human rights compliance, and improving accountability across the sector.
The launch, held recently in Abuja, drew from federal ministries, security agencies, private security companies, civil society organisations, and the diplomatic community. Nigeria’s worsening security challenges have driven a surge in demand for private security services, with over 1,500 companies now employing more than a million personnel nationwide.
However, experts say the industry faces persistent issues, including weak regulation, poor working conditions, and limited adherence to global standards. ICoCA, a multi-stakeholder initiative established in 2013, seeks to address these gaps by promoting compliance with human rights and international humanitarian law among private security providers.
The association offers certification, monitoring, training, and grievance mechanisms aimed at improving industry standards and reducing operational risks. Despite Nigeria’s large private security market, awareness and membership of ICoCA have remained limited, prompting the creation of a national chapter to drive engagement and reform.
Speaking at the event, Patrick Egloff, Swiss Ambassador to Nigeria, said Switzerland was proud to support the initiative, having played a key role in developing global frameworks for private security governance.
He noted that ICoCA brings together governments, civil society, and private security companies to promote accountability and the rule of law, adding that the Nigerian chapter reflects sustained collaboration between international and local stakeholders.
Egloff also referenced previous engagements between ICoCA, the Swiss Embassy, and Nigerian institutions such as the Ministry of Interior and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, describing the launch as a continuation of ongoing reform efforts.
Representing the minister of interior, Adaji Shehu described the launch as timely, noting that private security companies play an increasingly vital role in protecting infrastructure, businesses, and communities.
She said the federal government is committed to strengthening the sector through improved licensing, enhanced training, and alignment with international standards.
According to her, the ICoCA framework supports key national priorities, including safer communities, stronger institutions, and improved investor confidence.
