……Strengthens Forest Security.
Emmanuel lkpeama
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has declared that the state’s forests will no longer serve as safe havens for terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and other criminal elements, as his administration intensifies efforts to strengthen security across the state.
The governor made the declaration during a visit to the training camp of newly recruited Forest Guard Trainees, where he reaffirmed his commitment to reclaiming forest areas that have long been exploited by criminal groups as hideouts and operational bases.
Addressing the trainees, Ododo emphasized that securing the state’s vast forest reserves remains a critical component of his administration’s security agenda.
He noted that the recruitment and training of Forest Guards are designed to improve surveillance, support intelligence gathering and deny criminals the freedom to operate within Kogi’s forests.
According to the governor, the initiative forms part of the Forest Guard programme approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and is being implemented through the Office of the National Security Adviser in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS) and other relevant security agencies.
Ododo commended President Tinubu for prioritizing national security and empowering states with innovative strategies to tackle emerging security challenges. He also praised the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for his commitment to strengthening security operations across the country.
The governor further acknowledged the support of the Director-General of the DSS, Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, noting that the agency has continued to play a pivotal role in safeguarding Kogi State.
He revealed that the DSS is currently overseeing the profiling and training of the Forest Guard recruits to ensure professionalism, accountability and operational efficiency.
While stressing the need to expand security manpower, Ododo maintained that only individuals of proven integrity, discipline and loyalty would be entrusted with the responsibility of protecting lives and property across the state.
He urged the trainees to remain focused and dedicated throughout their training, describing them as a vital addition to Kogi’s security architecture and a key force in the ongoing effort to protect communities from criminal activities.
Reiterating his administration’s determination to rid the state of criminal elements, the governor assured residents that every lawful measure would be deployed to secure forests, communities and major routes across Kogi State.
The visit to the training camp came barely a day after Governor Ododo inspected the first batch of Armoured Personnel Carriers procured by the state government to enhance the operational capacity and combat readiness of security agencies.
Ododo reaffirmed that security remains a top priority of his administration, pledging sustained investment in personnel, equipment and intelligence-driven operations aimed at making Kogi State safer, more peaceful and attractive to investors.
He assured residents that the government would continue to work tirelessly until every part of the state is secure and citizens can go about their daily activities without fear.