Churches Urged To Strengthen Security Measures

Churches in Nigeria have been asked to strengthen security systems and adopt proactive measures to protect worshippers amid growing concerns over terrorism, kidnapping, violent crime and other security threats.

The call was made by Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Transworld Security, Dr. Victoria Ekhomu, during a lecture titled: “Effective Policing of Churches for Safer Worship.”

Speaking on the theme, “Protecting the House of God – Building Safe, Secure and Resilient Churches in an Era of Terrorism and Insecurity,” Ekhomu said places of worship must continue to serve as sanctuaries of hope, peace, healing and spiritual renewal while also embracing practical security measures.

The security consultant noted that security should not be viewed as a contradiction to faith but as an important aspect of responsible stewardship.

Citing Matthew 26:41 and Nehemiah 4:9, Ekhomu said prayer and preparedness must work together, noting that believers should combine faith with vigilance and worship with wisdom.

She identified terrorism, kidnapping, armed robbery, violent attacks, crowd-related incidents, fire outbreaks, medical emergencies, cyber threats, child protection concerns and insider risks as some of the major challenges confronting churches.

According to her, churches may be attractive targets because they host large gatherings, operate predictable worship schedules, maintain open access and often have limited security measures. Attacks on religious centres can also generate significant public attention and create widespread fear.

She recommended a layered security architecture comprising outer, middle and inner protective rings. She said churches should strengthen perimeter fencing, gate security, lighting, surveillance, visitor management, vehicle screening, parking control and access to sensitive areas.

The risk management professional also called for clearly marked emergency exits, functional public address systems, first-aid facilities, fire extinguishers and discreet deployment of trained security personnel within worship centres.

The security expert urged parishes to conduct regular risk assessments covering physical infrastructure, human activities and operational events such as worship services, vigils, crusades, weddings and funerals.

Church security teams, she said, should be trained to identify suspicious behaviour, monitor unusual activities and respond appropriately to emergencies. Unattended items, unauthorized surveillance, repeated attempts to enter restricted areas and vehicles parked unusually close to church premises should be reported promptly.

She highlighted the important roles of clergy, clergy wives, stewards, youth volunteers and parish security personnel in promoting security awareness, supporting emergency communication and assisting vulnerable worshippers.

Ekhomu further advised churches to develop emergency response, evacuation, lockdown, fire safety and medical response plans, while conducting regular drills to improve readiness.

She recommended that every parish establish a security committee, maintain an incident register and strengthen collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, Department of State Services, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, emergency agencies, community leaders and reputable private security providers.

For the Diocese of Lagos West, she proposed annual security assessments, regular training, improved surveillance, safeguarding policies for children and periodic reviews of security incidents.

“Security is everyone’s ministry,” Ekhomu said, urging worshippers to remain observant and report concerns responsibly.

She added that faith and preparedness are complementary, adding that churches can remain welcoming places of worship while taking practical steps to protect lives and build resilient faith communities.