Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Ododo, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to reclaiming forest areas across the state from terrorists, bandits, and other criminal groups threatening public safety.
Speaking during a visit to a training camp for newly recruited forest guard personnel in Lokoja, the governor emphasized that criminal elements would no longer be allowed to operate freely within the state.
He stated that the government is determined to strengthen security and ensure that residents and visitors can live and conduct their activities without fear. According to him, all lawful measures will be employed to eliminate criminal hideouts and enhance safety across Kogi.
Ododo urged the forest guard trainees to carry out their duties with discipline, dedication, and a strong sense of patriotism, noting that their role is vital to the state’s security architecture.
The governor explained that vast forested areas have posed significant security challenges in recent years, serving as refuge for armed groups and facilitating attacks on communities. To address the problem, the state has intensified efforts to improve surveillance and strengthen the ability of security agencies to respond to threats.
He noted that the recruitment and training of forest guards form an important part of the state’s broader security strategy aimed at denying criminals access to safe havens and improving intelligence gathering.
The initiative is being implemented under the Forest Guard Programme, a nationwide security project approved by President Bola Tinubu and coordinated through relevant security institutions in partnership with state authorities.
Ododo also commended security agencies involved in the screening and training process, stressing the importance of professionalism, accountability, and integrity among recruits entrusted with protecting lives and property.
The governor maintained that while the state is expanding its security workforce, priority will be given to selecting individuals with proven character and commitment to public service.
His visit to the training camp followed the inspection of newly acquired armoured personnel carriers purchased by the state government to strengthen the operational effectiveness of security agencies.
The nationwide Forest Guards Initiative was introduced to enhance security in forest regions across the country and curb the activities of terrorists, bandits, and other criminal groups.
