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President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has greenlit the creation of the Forest Guards of Nigeria, a new security outfit aimed at tackling the growing threat of terrorists, bandits, and other criminals using the nation’s 1,129 forests as hideouts. The announcement, made public on Wednesday by Sunday Dare, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication via his official X account, signals a bold move to reclaim Nigeria’s forests from illegal activities.
The initiative, directed by the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA), will spearhead the immediate recruitment of personnel in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment to ensure swift implementation. “The forest guards will be well-trained and armed to flush out terrorists and criminals hiding in our forests,” Dare stated, emphasizing the effort as a joint venture between federal and state governments.
This program is expected to employ thousands of young Nigerians, boosting job creation while enhancing national security. The move aligns with Tinubu’s earlier vow to not “surrender an inch of Nigeria’s territory” to criminal elements. “We will take back our forests,” he declared, reiterating his administration’s resolve to dismantle safe havens for bandits and terrorists.
The establishment of the Forest Guards marks a significant step in Nigeria’s ongoing battle against insecurity. The NSA has been tasked with ensuring the outfit is fully equipped and operational to safeguard the nation’s forests and communities. This strategic initiative underscores the government’s commitment to restoring peace and security across the country.
