President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu to arm and train forest guards without delay. The move targets rising kidnapping and terrorism in forest regions. He stressed that Nigeria must use every available force to keep citizens safe.
“We face challenges of kidnapping and terrorism. so we need all the forces we can utilise. We need to protect our people,” he said during Wednesday’s briefing.
Tinubu Forest Guards Initiative Gains Urgency
The national forest security service, approved earlier this year, aims to secure forest reserves used by armed groups. Tinubu now wants the plan executed quickly. Ribadu must accelerate training, supply weapons, and deploy guards to vulnerable areas. These steps support ongoing national security measures, including emergency actions and new recruitment.
President Restates VIP Police Withdrawal Order
Tinubu also repeated his instruction for police officers attached to VIPs to return to frontline duty. Concerns over delayed enforcement prompted the reminder. Even so, he assured that VIPs will not be left exposed.
The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, will work with Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun and the Civil Defence Corps to replace withdrawn escorts when needed.
Security Agencies Told to Align Operations
Ribadu and the Department of State Services must also harmonise enforcement structures. The President said rising abductions require stronger coordination and full deployment of trained forest guards. He believes these actions will help improve safety in remote communities.
Read also: Tinubu Orders Ministers to Get Presidential Police Escort Approval
