More States Deploy Forest Guards As Insecurity Rises

More States Deploy Forest Guards As Insecurity Rises

Several state governments have stepped up the deployment of forest guards as insecurity continues to spread across many parts of Nigeria.

The move follows President Bola Tinubu’s approval of the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards after recent attacks and kidnappings linked to armed groups in Oyo and Kwara states.

Many states have already begun training and deploying personnel to strengthen security around forests and rural communities.

Kebbi, Gombe, Kwara, Kaduna, Edo, Imo, Bayelsa and Anambra are among the states leading the initiative.

Thousands of recruits have either completed training or are currently undergoing specialised instruction in surveillance, intelligence gathering and forest security operations.

State governments say the programme is aimed at denying criminals safe havens in forests often used as bases for attacks and kidnappings.

While several states have embraced the scheme, others are taking different approaches.

Ondo State said it would rely on its Amotekun Corps rather than recruit federal forest guards, while states such as Zamfara, Rivers, Abia, Lagos and Osun are yet to fully begin recruitment.

Some officials have raised concerns about the role of forest guards, warning that they should support intelligence gathering rather than engage directly in high-risk combat operations.

As the security drive expands, President Bola Tinubu has assured Nigerians that his administration will continue the fight against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping.

He said the government remains committed to securing the release of those held captive, protecting communities and strengthening security efforts across the country as Nigeria prepares to mark another Democracy Day anniversary.