President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, to fast-track the training and arming of additional forest guards as part of renewed measures to combat kidnapping, banditry and terrorism nationwide.
Gatekeepers News reports that the directive, issued on Wednesday, builds on earlier approvals for the creation of a national forest security service to secure Nigeria’s forest reserves, which have long served as hideouts and operational bases for armed groups.
Addressing ongoing security concerns, Tinubu said: “We face challenges here and there of kidnapping and terrorism. We need all the forces we can utilise. We need to protect our people.”
According to the Presidency, the move is intended to boost security presence in remote and forested regions where criminal networks have intensified their activities. The expanded deployment is expected to complement other measures announced in response to rising insecurity, including emergency actions and increased recruitment across security agencies.
The NSA’s office, working with relevant ministries and agencies, has been mandated to accelerate implementation to ensure the deployment of better trained and better equipped personnel to vulnerable communities.
Meanwhile, Tinubu on Wednesday reaffirmed his directive for the withdrawal of police officers attached to VIPs for redeployment to frontline policing, expressing frustration with delays in enforcing the order. Speaking ahead of the Federal Executive Council meeting at the State House, Abuja, the President said:
“I honestly believe in what I said… It should be effected. If you have any problem because of the nature of your assignment, contact the IGP and get my clearance.”
He instructed the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, to collaborate with the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) to ensure VIPs are not left without protection, noting that civil defence personnel should replace withdrawn police escorts where necessary. “So that you don’t leave people exposed,” he added.
The President also directed Ribadu and the Department of State Services (DSS) to “provide further information” and harmonise enforcement structures. He linked these actions to rising cases of abduction, saying: “We are facing challenges of kidnapping. We need all the forces we have on the ground, fully utilised.”
