Switzerland Backs Nigeria on Private Security Reform as ICoCA Nigeria Chapter Launches in Abuja

New multi-stakeholder platform targets accountability, human rights compliance in private security sector

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By A1 News Desk | Abuja, Nigeria

Switzerland has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria in strengthening governance and oversight of private security operations.
The pledge came at the official launch of the Nigeria Chapter of the International Code of Conduct Association (ICoCA) in Abuja.

The Swiss Ambassador to Nigeria, Patrick Eglof, said the initiative would enhance accountability, professionalism and human rights compliance in Nigeria’s expanding private security sector.

Eglof spoke at the launch event organised by AfriLaw in collaboration with the Embassy of Switzerland in Nigeria.

He explained that ICoCA, established in 2013, serves as a global oversight body for private security providers, ensuring adherence to international human rights and humanitarian law standards.

According to him, the association brings together governments, private security firms and civil society actors to promote responsible conduct in security operations.

Eglof noted that Switzerland has engaged Nigerian authorities, including the Interior Ministry and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, since 2017 on improving private security regulation.

He said the establishment of a national chapter would deepen local ownership of standards, encourage peer learning among operators, and strengthen collaboration between regulators and stakeholders.

“Professional, accountable and well-regulated private security providers contribute not only to safety, but also to trust, stability and sustainable development,” Eglof stated.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, represented by Asmau Shehu, described the initiative as timely, noting that it aligns with Nigeria’s commitment to improving accountability in the sector.

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He said the launch reflects a shared goal of ensuring private security providers operate within clearly defined frameworks of professionalism, integrity and respect for human rights.

“As the security sector grows, it becomes increasingly necessary to ensure that operations are guided by international best practices, sound regulation and effective oversight,” he said.

The Commandant-General of the NSCDC, represented by Commandant Victoria Akpe, expressed readiness to align with ICoCA standards, including integrating human rights principles into training and establishing credible complaint mechanisms.

Also speaking, Chris Galvin outlined the association’s core framework, noting that the International Code of Conduct for Private Security Service Providers, agreed in 2010, remains the guiding document for member organisations.

Event coordinator Chinwike Okereke disclosed that Nigeria is now the second African country, after Egypt, to establish a national ICoCA chapter, with a regional conference scheduled for November.

ICoCA Framework Targets Human Rights Compliance
The association’s code sets out operational standards for private security companies, focusing on human rights protection, accountability and lawful conduct in security operations.

Nigeria Expands Role in Global Security Governance
With the launch of the national chapter, Nigeria joins a growing network of countries aligning domestic security practices with international regulatory frameworks.

Nigeria’s private security sector is expanding rapidly amid persistent security challenges. Strengthening governance, oversight and human rights compliance is critical to preventing abuses, improving public trust and supporting broader national security objectives.