A member of the House of Representatives, Fatoba Olusola Steve, has urged state governors across the country to support President Bola Tinubu’s newly approved Nigeria Forest Security Services initiative to enhance national security and revitalise the agricultural sector.
Gatekeepers News reports that Fatoba, who represents Ekiti Central Federal Constituency II and chairs the House Committee on Information, National Orientation, Ethics and Values, described the forest guard scheme as a “bold and timely intervention” to curb banditry, herders–farmers clashes, and other security threats in the country’s forests.
In a statement issued in Ado-Ekiti on Monday, the lawmaker commended the President for what he called a decisive step toward safeguarding farmers and restoring confidence in rural communities.
“I wish to sincerely appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his visionary leadership and approval of the Nigeria Forest Security Services.
This bold and timely initiative is a significant step towards addressing the pressing challenges of insecurity, especially in our rural and agrarian communities,” Fatoba said.
He noted that the establishment of the forest guard service would empower local communities, boost food production, and create a safer environment for investment.
“At a time when insecurity has deterred many from engaging in farming and discouraged foreign investment, this move will not only boost food security but also strengthen our economy through agriculture and non-oil financial inflows. It sends a strong signal that Nigeria is committed to creating a safe and enabling environment for growth,” he added.
The lawmaker called on state governments to complement the federal government’s efforts by mobilising local participation and preventing the illegal occupation of forests across the country.
Fatoba expressed optimism that with the effective rollout of the initiative, farmers and residents in agrarian areas would soon “heave a sigh of relief” as peace and economic stability gradually return.
