Governor Ododo Intensifies Kogi Security Drive, Deploys Forest Guards to Flush Out Criminals From Forest Hideouts
Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to securing the state’s forests, charging newly trained Forest Guards to eliminate criminal hideouts and strengthen community safety.
Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has renewed his administration’s determination to reclaim the state’s forests from criminal elements, declaring that terrorists, bandits and other violent groups will not be allowed to operate freely within any part of the state.
The Governor made the declaration during an inspection visit to the training camp of newly recruited Forest Guard trainees, where he charged them to embrace their responsibility with discipline, patriotism and a strong commitment to protecting the people of Kogi State.
Governor Ododo explained that the vast forest areas across the state had become a major security concern due to their use as hiding places by criminal elements who launch attacks on innocent citizens and communities.
He said the establishment and training of the Forest Guards represent a major step in strengthening the state’s security architecture, improving intelligence gathering and preventing criminals from using ungoverned spaces as operational bases.
According to him, the initiative aligns with the Forest Guard programme approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and being implemented through the Office of the National Security Adviser in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS) and other relevant security agencies.
The Governor commended President Tinubu for his commitment to improving security across the country, describing the initiative as a strategic response to emerging security challenges.
He also appreciated the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, for his leadership and support toward strengthening security coordination nationwide.
Governor Ododo reserved special commendation for the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Mr. Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, for the agency’s continued support and contribution to security operations in Kogi State.
He noted that the DSS has remained a critical partner in the state’s security efforts and is currently overseeing the profiling and professional training of the Forest Guard recruits to ensure that only qualified and responsible personnel are deployed.
The Governor stressed that beyond increasing the number of security personnel, his administration places strong emphasis on integrity, discipline and character, noting that only individuals with proven commitment and loyalty would be entrusted with protecting communities.
Addressing the trainees, Ododo urged them to take the training seriously and prepare themselves for the responsibility of supporting security agencies in safeguarding lives and property.
He described the Forest Guards as an important addition to the state’s security network and expressed confidence that their deployment would significantly improve surveillance and early response mechanisms across rural communities.
“Security remains the highest priority of this administration. We will continue to provide the necessary manpower, equipment and intelligence support required to make Kogi State safer for residents, investors and visitors,” the Governor stated.
The Governor reaffirmed that his administration would continue to deploy every lawful measure necessary to eliminate criminal activities and ensure that all parts of the state remain safe.
The visit to the Forest Guard training camp came shortly after Governor Ododo inspected the first batch of Armoured Personnel Carriers acquired by the state government to strengthen the operational capacity and readiness of security agencies.
He said the investments in security equipment, personnel and intelligence-driven operations were part of a broader plan to create a peaceful environment that supports economic growth and development.
Governor Ododo assured residents that the government would not relent until every community in Kogi State enjoys improved security and citizens can carry out their lawful activities without fear.