Nigeria Deploys Forest Guards to Enhance Community Security

On Saturday, at the Muhammadu Buhari Civic Centre in Lokoja, National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu announced the immediate deployment of newly trained forest guards across various communities in Nigeria. Speaking through Major General Hillary Mabeokwu, Ribadu outlined the dual mandate of the forest guards: to safeguard the nation’s forests and enhance security in communities susceptible to criminal activities.

He urged the graduates to perform their duties with professionalism, respect for human rights, gender sensitivity, and adherence to ethical standards and international law. Ribadu expressed the Federal Government's commitment to the safety and security of all Nigerians through the establishment of the forest guard initiative.

Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo reaffirmed his administration's dedication to strengthening security, stating that no part of Kogi’s forests would serve as a refuge for criminals. He praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting the National Forest Guards program, which aims to bolster community-based security nationwide.