In a significant move to transform Nigeria’s private security industry, LEAD Integrated Security Solutions (LISS), a subsidiary of the US-based LEAD Security Group, officially launched its operations in Lagos on Thursday, July 24, 2025.
The launch ceremony, held at the Lagos Continental Hotel, Victoria Island, brought together security experts, industry leaders, and international partners in a show of support for LISS’s mission to redefine security solutions in the country.
Speaking at the event, President and CEO of LISS, Ifeanyi Obinali, emphasized the company’s commitment to combining physical security measures with advanced digital technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI), to address the growing security challenges in Nigeria.
“What we see in Nigeria is a lot more of physical security. What we are trying to do is bring a combination of physical and digital security,” Obinali stated. “AI is no longer the next big thing—it is the now thing. We need systems that can detect threats early and alert communities and law enforcement before incidents occur.”
Obinali, who is a member of the American Society for Industrial Security (ASIS) and has over 16 years of experience in corporate security and crisis response, said the company’s strategy is to start operations in Nigeria and gradually expand across Africa. He noted that the parent company in the United States has a workforce of over 350 professionals operating across critical sectors in New York and New Jersey.
According to him, the Nigerian security landscape has long needed a technological upgrade, and LISS aims to fill that gap with solutions that combine human intelligence and cutting-edge systems.
MD, Thermal Imaging Radar USA.
Echoing Obinali’s vision, Mike Petty, Managing Director of Thermal Imaging Radar, USA, stressed that true security today goes beyond uniforms and physical presence. “We are happy to partner with LISS in deploying top-tier technology that will revolutionize security in Nigeria and across Africa,” he said.
Also lending his voice was Tobias See, Managing Director of Riley Falcon Security Services, Nairobi, Kenya, who praised LISS for taking a bold step toward modernizing Africa’s security sector. “Africa has a unique security landscape. Our solutions must be custom-built for our realities. LISS is on the right track,” he noted.
Brigadier General Ahmed Mohammed (Rtd), a Senior Regional Vice President of ASIS, commended Obinali for bringing home the wealth of experience gathered in the United States. “LISS has proven itself in the US market through excellence and professionalism. I am confident the same success will be replicated here in Nigeria,” he added.
With its innovative approach and strong international backing, LISS is positioning itself to become a major player in Nigeria’s evolving security landscape, setting new benchmarks for professionalism, technology integration, and proactive threat management.
Also speaking, Cybersecurity engineer and threat detection expert, Emmanuel Enamejewa emphasized the growing role of artificial intelligence (AI), digital forensics, and homegrown technological innovation in tackling Africa’s growing security challenges.
Enamejewa noted that Africa’s vulnerability stems from low technology adoption and a lack of adequate awareness around threat response.
“All around us, there are threats — both physical and digital. What makes Africa unique is that we are still laid back in technological advancement,” he said. “There’s not enough awareness when it comes to security response. That is why companies like LEAD Integrated Security Solutions are redefining the space by deploying special technologies, like the one showcased today.”
Enamejewa highlighted that successful deployment of security technology—especially homegrown solutions—requires skilled talent, training, exposure, and committed stakeholders, including governments.
“When it comes to homegrown technology, you need the right talent, expertise, and exposure,” he explained. “Beyond that, there must be commitment, and the government has to create an enabling environment for these solutions to thrive.”
Using “big data” and AI to monitor and respond to threats, he said, can greatly enhance both physical and cyber security. “Big data doesn’t necessarily mean something gigantic; it means having sufficient data to support both physical and digital security.”
He called for better infrastructure and government support to make the environment conducive for indigenous security professionals to operate effectively.
On the issue of border security, Enamejewa pointed to Nigeria’s over 1,400 porous borders as a pressing concern and proposed the deployment of AI-driven technologies as a solution.
“Take a cue from the ongoing conflict between Israel and Gaza. Israel has been able to respond to threats effectively using AI-powered systems without necessarily deploying personnel to every point,” he said. “Technology like tunnel detection and smart surveillance fences could be deployed across Nigeria’s borders, particularly in the Northeast, to curb criminal activities.
He acknowledged that Nigeria is still at the baby steps of technological integration but expressed optimism with the recent innovations introduced by companies like LEAD.
“With the coming of the technology showcased today, I believe we are on the right path,” he added.
On his part, Mr. Hyacinth Nwafor, Managing Director of Hybridnewsng Global Digital Media Limited, who also served as the Master of Ceremonies, described the launch as more than a business debut — calling it the birth of a legacy.
“What a joy it is to stand before you on this special day — a day that marks the official unveiling of Lead Integrated Security Solutions, a brand that is set to redefine the future of security innovation in Nigeria and across the continent,” he said.
According to Nwafor, LISS enters the market not to merely compete, but to lead, set new benchmarks, and provide cutting-edge, intelligent, and proactive security services designed for a dynamic and unpredictable world.
“LISS arrives with solutions that are not only proactive but also predictive — harnessing technology, innovation, and expertise to stay ahead of the threats,” he noted.
Beyond the advanced systems and strategies that the company offers, Nwafor highlighted the deeper essence of LISS — one rooted in trust, transformation, and the belief that security should be a right, not a privilege.
“LISS represents trust, vision, and transformation. It is built by a team of seasoned professionals and visionaries who believe that safety and security should be affordable, accessible, and adaptable,” he added.
He expressed gratitude to stakeholders, clients, investors, and supporters present at the launch, stating that their presence signifies confidence in the future of secure possibilities.
The event featured inspiring speeches, product showcases, networking opportunities, and a formal unveiling ceremony. Nwafor encouraged all guests to immerse themselves in the experience, emphasizing that the brand is not following a path but creating one.
“This is not just the beginning of a company. It is the rise of a brand with purpose… Let’s remember this day as the day we witnessed the launch of leadership in security — the LISS way,” he concluded.