Ribadu Urges New Forest Guards to Protect Kogi Communities

On Saturday, at the Muhammadu Buhari Civic Center in Lokoja, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, represented by Major General Hillary Mabeokwu, addressed the newly trained forest guards, emphasizing their dual mandate of protecting Nigeria’s forests and enhancing community security. The personnel are set for immediate deployment across various communities.

Mabeokwu urged the graduates to perform their duties with professionalism, respect for human rights, and adherence to ethical standards. Kogi State Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo reaffirmed his administration's commitment to security, stating that the graduation of the pioneer batch of the National Forest Guards symbolizes Kogi's determination to strengthen its security architecture.

He commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting the initiative and acknowledged the collaboration of various security agencies in the training of 530 graduates from an initial 539 enrollees. Ododo warned the new guards against abusing their authority, highlighting the responsibility that comes with their uniform.