How to set up a security company in Nigeria Unfortunately, crime is on the rise in Nigeria, and because of this, security is now a higher priority than ever before; and demand for private security services – from CCTV monitoring to close proximity body guarding – is on the rise.
So, if you already have experience within the security sector and can see yourself organising watertight security (and, ultimately, giving peace of mind) by supplying clients with top notch security services, there’s never been a more opportune time for you to start a business in this industry.
Interested? Read on to find out how to set up a security company in Nigeria.
How To Set Up A Security Company in Nigeria
Choosing your niche
In the security industry, experience is key – so when it comes to deciding on your security business’ niche, it’s important to select an area that you have some personal experience in. That way, you’ll understand how the service should be run, and you’ll know what’s required for your service to be smooth, professional and successful.
You’ll also need to ensure that there’s enough demand for that service in your local area. As you can imagine, setting up a bodyguarding business in a region where nobody is ever likely to require a bodyguard isn’t ideal.
Try:
- Looking up the security businesses that are already operating in your area and finding out what their flagship services are. This will be a good indication of what’s popular – although, you should always strive to stand out from your competitors. Now you know what they offer, think about how you can improve on their offering. How can you give clients an experience that they can’t?
- Running a focus group with local businesses and organisations, asking them what their biggest security needs are. Are there any common threads?
Get the necessary training.
Go for security training courses that will teach you strategies of how to protect your client, self defense, gun and baton handling and other tools of your trade.
Having a military or law enforcement background will help in starting your security business. If you do not have any of such back ground, do not worry, just make sure you use training programs that is recommended by the military and police. And make sure you pass those courses. Endeavor to be the best security guard you can think of because the lives and property of your clients will be your responsibility to safe guard. I also advice that you work in a security guard company for a while before you start your own outfit. That way, you will have the experience to build on.
How To Set Up A Security Company in Nigeria
Register and get the proper licenses for your business.
Endeavor to get register your security company with the Corporate Affairs Commission Nigeria (CAC Nigeria). You will also have to get licensing from the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC) because they are saddled with the responsibility of regulating and controlling the activities of private security companies in Nigeria. You should also get the gun permits if your employees are going to be carrying firearms. But bear in that individuals with criminal backgrounds or under the age of 17 will never obtain license to carry firearms.
Obtaining Liability Insurance
No security company should operate without the proper liability insurance. Make sure you cover your business in case something happens to a client. Bonding insurance can also help to protect your company in the event that a client has property that is stolen by anybody under your employ. While this shouldn’t happen if you pay your employees well and do the proper background checks, a single incident by a disgruntled employee could cost your business if you aren’t adequately protected.
Get an Office Space
After fulfilling the above points, you will then need to secure an office space where your administrative activities will take place. For a start, you do not really need a big office space. Let your available capital help you to determine the amount you intend to spend on your office space. Just ensure that the space you secure is sufficient and appropriately furnished to meet your basic administrative needs.
Employ and Train Your Staff
Next you need to recruit experienced staff to serve as your security personnel. Your best bet here are retired police or army officers. This is because they have a lot of experience in delivering security at very high level. You can mix them up with young able bodied men and women who will complement them.
Despite the fact that they are experienced, you will still be required to train them so that they can be up to speed with the current security trends.
You can also hire an administration personnel who will take of the office work. Also note that you will be required to provide insurance for your employees because being a security personnel comes with its own risks.
How To Set Up A Security Company in Nigeria
Bid on contracts
Search for event places and businesses that are in need of security guard personnel. Bidding on contracts can be very competitive in the security industry. Other ways of getting clients are Spread fliers, business cards, word of mouth and placing ads in local newspapers. Remember that the growth of your security business depends solely on you. Train your employees very well because their actions will determine if your clients will retain your services or not.
Equipment requirements
The equipment that you and your security staff will need to take with you on a job will depend on the security service that you’re providing. But, in general, you and your staff might find it useful to have:
- A means with of communicating with other security personnel and back office staff – for example; walkie talkies, earpieces and personal microphones, or dedicated mobile phones
- A notebook and pen with which to make note of any incidents that occur
- A digital camera. If there’s no security cameras on site, you may find it useful to have a means of documenting events – although you’ll need to be wary of privacy concerns
- A tool belt to keep all of this in so that your hands are free
- If you want your business to appear professional, uniforms are a must. Fortunately, they can be as simple (and inexpensive) as smart shoes, a pair of trousers and a plain polo-shirt with your business’ logo – and possibly the word ‘SECURITY’, depending on whether or not you/your staff will be in public view – printed on it.
If you need more information or would like to book a consulting session with us, you can contact any of our business consultant on 08105636015 or 08076359735. Alternatively, you can send a mail to dayohub@gmail.com
Related