The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) has charged Private Guard Companies (PGCs) to prioritise timely intelligence reporting to strengthen response to emerging security threats.

NSCDC Commandant General (CG), Dr Ahmed Audi, gave the directive while issuing operational licences to 28 PGC operators on Thursday at the NSCDC Headquarters in Abuja.

Audi, who was represented by Deputy Commandant-General Zakari Nengi, said companies would be held accountable for security breaches within their jurisdictions.

‘As a matter of necessity, you are to submit intelligence reports monthly.

‘Any report of urgent importance must be submitted immediately, as companies will be held liable for any breach of security that occurs in their areas of operation,’ he stated.

He noted that the training of private guards remained the sole responsibility of NSCDC and underscored the importance of standardised training for effective service delivery.

‘You are receiving your licence at a time when a unified training curriculum is set to be launched.

‘This means all guards will undergo the same training across Nigeria, regardless of their company or location.

‘Guards must be trained and certified at NSCDC colleges or state commands before deployment,’ he added.