The daily torch media.
Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, has announced plans to license private security companies to carry firearms and introduce private firefighters in Nigeria. This move aims to address the country’s growing security challenges. Here are the key points from his statement.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo believes Nigeria can no longer avoid debating whether private security companies should carry firearms, given the country’s population and emerging threats. He suggests the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) should regulate armed private security firms, profiling and licensing companies and their employees.
The Minister emphasizes that licensing must be backed by law and thorough vetting, with the NSA’s office issuing licenses for firearms supported by DSS background checks and security clearance.
Dr. Tunji-Ojo advocates for urgent reform of the Federal Fire Service, including a new legal framework to empower it and open the sector to private participation. He describes the current Fire Service Act of 1963 as “obsolete and inadequate”.
The Minister assures that accountability mechanisms will ensure only the right people are armed, addressing public concerns over weapon proliferation.
