The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Kwara State Command, has warned private security companies against operating outside established regulations, insisting that professionalism, accountability and compliance with industry standards remain non-negotiable.

The State Commandant, Abbas Ndah Mohammed, gave the warning on Thursday during a stakeholders' meeting and sensitisation programme organised by the Command's Private Guard Companies Department at the Ade Abolurin Hall, State Command Headquarters, Ilorin.

Mohammed stressed that private security operators play a significant role in Nigeria's security architecture and must work within the regulatory framework to ensure the protection of lives and property.

He charged operators in the state to maintain professional standards and support efforts to tackle security challenges, warning that the Command would not compromise on regulatory compliance and accountability.

Earlier, the Head of the Private Guard Companies Department, DCC Kola Kazeem, said the programme was designed to strengthen cooperation between public security institutions and private security providers while improving professionalism and operational effectiveness.

Three resource persons delivered presentations on public-private security collaboration, regulation and professionalisation of the private security industry, and the Federal Government's Safe School Programme.

CSP Elder Fayomi Solomon Adebayo (retd.) emphasised intelligence sharing and coordinated security operations, while DCC Darong Lenge stressed the need for continuous training, compliance with NSCDC regulations and action against unlicensed operations.

DSC Oriade Michael highlighted the role of private guard companies in protecting schools, calling for proactive security measures, adequate personnel training and stronger collaboration with relevant agencies.

The programme also featured an interactive session where stakeholders discussed operational challenges, regulatory requirements and strategies to improve security delivery.