The Kogi State Government has announced a renewed push to clear its forest reserves of criminal groups and restore full security across affected areas.
Governor Kogi State Usman Ododo disclosed this on Sunday during a visit to the training facility of newly recruited Forest Guard personnel in Lokoja.
He stated that no part of the state would be allowed to serve as a safe refuge for terrorists, bandits, or other violent offenders, adding that government would deploy every lawful means available to protect lives and property.
Ododo emphasized that the expansion of forest surveillance was a central part of the state’s broader security plan, aimed at denying criminal networks access to remote hideouts and strengthening rapid response to threats.
According to him, the extensive and poorly monitored forest belts in parts of the state have increasingly been exploited by criminal elements, necessitating urgent intervention through trained personnel and improved security coordination.
He explained that the Forest Guard programme is part of a national security initiative approved by President Bola Tinubu and implemented through the Office of the National Security Adviser in partnership with the Department of State Services (DSS).
The governor commended the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, for his role in driving security reforms, and also praised the Director-General of the DSS, Department of State Services, Adeola Ajayi, for supporting the recruitment, profiling, and training of the Forest Guards.
He urged the trainees to remain disciplined, committed, and professional, noting that only individuals with proven integrity and dedication would be trusted with such a sensitive security responsibility.
Ododo also recalled that he had recently inspected newly acquired armoured personnel carriers meant to strengthen the operational capacity of security agencies in the state.
He reaffirmed that his administration would continue to prioritise security through sustained investment in manpower, equipment, and intelligence-led operations until all communities in the state are fully secured and residents can carry out their daily activities without fear.