Challenges of Providing Security in Lagos State: The Case of Corporate Private Security Organisations

Abstract

The existence and rapid growth of Corporate Private Security Organizations (CPSOs) have created new opportunities and challenges. To regulate the CPSOs effectively, this study investigated the challenges of CPSOs in crime prevention in Lagos State. Data were obtained using a combination of a questionnaire, In-depth Interview (IDI) and Key informant Interview (KII) methods. Copies of the questionnaire were administered to 1,200 respondents in gated neighborhoods in four local government areas (LGAs) of Lagos State, namely Island, Shomolu, Ikeja and Amuwo/Odofin LGAs. Thirty IDIs were conducted with members of staff and management of corporate companies, corporate guards, and proprietors of CPSOs. Four KIIs were also conducted with two members each of Society of Security Practitioners of Nigeria and Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps. The study revealed that the challenges facing the CPSOs included poor training, poor remuneration and welfare schemes owing to the absence of clear operational standards. There is, therefore, an urgent need to set clear and definite standards to promote professionalism in the industry.