Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State has praised the Federal Government for its renewed efforts to address insecurity in the state, following approval for the recruitment and training of 1,000 forest guards.
The governor said the initiative represents a major step toward restoring peace, protecting communities, and securing forest areas that have increasingly served as hideouts for bandits and other criminal groups.
He made the remarks on Tuesday while receiving a delegation of religious leaders at the Government House in Katsina.
According to him, the intervention reflects President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to supporting states facing security challenges and ensuring the safety of lives and property.
Radda disclosed that during a recent meeting with the President, approval was given for the recruitment of 1,000 personnel who will serve as forest guards across vulnerable areas of the state.
He added that the Federal Government will handle their training, provide necessary equipment including arms, and also pay their allowances, which he said would strengthen the overall security response.
The governor explained that the forest guards would work alongside conventional security agencies and local security outfits to combat banditry, kidnapping, and other criminal activities.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to collaboration with federal authorities, security agencies, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to achieve lasting peace in Katsina State.
The initiative is part of broader efforts by both state and federal governments to reclaim forests and improve security in the North-West region.
Residents and stakeholders have welcomed the development, expressing hope that it will help reduce insecurity and restore confidence in affected communities.
