By Samuel Ike, Abuja

Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has graduated 530 Forest Guards and tasked them with the responsibility of protecting the state against criminal elements operating in forests and rural communities.

The governor gave the charge during the passing out ceremony of the pioneer batch of the Forest Guards in Lokoja, describing the initiative as a major milestone in the state’s efforts to strengthen security and safeguard lives and property.

A total of 530 recruits successfully completed the training programme after undergoing intensive drills and capacity building exercises designed to prepare them for the task of securing forest reserves and supporting existing security structures across the state.

Represented by the Deputy Governor, Comrade Joel Salifu, Governor Ododo said the establishment of the Forest Guards demonstrates the commitment of both the Federal and Kogi State governments to tackling insecurity and enhancing public safety.

He urged the newly trained personnel to discharge their duties with discipline, professionalism, integrity and patriotism, noting that the security of communities and the protection of forested areas now rest significantly on their shoulders.

According to the governor, the Forest Guards are expected to serve as a critical line of defence against criminal activities, including banditry, kidnapping, illegal logging and other security threats that have exploited remote forest locations.

Ododo commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for initiating the National Forest Guards programme, describing it as a proactive strategy aimed at denying criminals safe havens and strengthening security at the grassroots level.

He stressed that security remains a top priority of his administration, adding that sustainable development in agriculture, commerce, education, healthcare and infrastructure can only be achieved in an atmosphere of peace and stability.

The governor explained that the Forest Guards would complement the efforts of the military, police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps and other security agencies through surveillance, intelligence gathering and rapid reporting of suspicious activities.

He called on the new personnel to remain vigilant and dedicated to duty, emphasizing that their success would be measured not only by arrests but also by their ability to prevent crime and reassure residents of their safety.

Ododo also appealed to traditional rulers, community leaders, youth groups and other stakeholders to support the initiative by providing credible and timely information that could assist security agencies in combating criminality.

Speaking at the event, representatives of security authorities commended the state government for investing in community based security measures and expressed confidence that the Forest Guards would strengthen efforts to curb crime and improve security across the state.

The graduation of the 530 Forest Guards is expected to boost ongoing operations against criminal groups operating within forests and hard to reach communities, while enhancing collaboration between local communities and security agencies in Kogi State.