By Adesakin Adefemi
Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo has vowed to flush out criminal groups from the state’s forests, declaring that there will be no safe haven for terrorists, bandits and other violent actors operating within Kogi borders.
Speaking during a visit to the training camp of newly recruited Forest Guard trainees in Lokoja on Sunday, Ododo said the government was determined to rid the state of criminal elements and would deploy all lawful resources to guarantee the safety of residents and visitors.
“The vast and largely unguarded forest areas in some parts of the state have become a major security challenge, providing hideouts for criminal groups and enabling attacks on innocent citizens,” the governor said. He described the recruitment and training of Forest Guards as a key component of the state’s security strategy.
According to Ododo, the initiative is designed to strengthen surveillance, deny criminals access to safe havens, and improve the capacity of security agencies to respond effectively to threats. He urged the trainees to discharge their duties with discipline, patriotism and a strong commitment to service.
The governor explained that the Forest Guard Programme was approved by President Bola Tinubu and is being implemented through the Office of the National Security Adviser in collaboration with the Department of State Services and other security institutions. He commended Tinubu for supporting innovative measures to tackle emerging security challenges at the state level.
Ododo also expressed appreciation to National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu for his leadership in advancing security reforms, and to DSS Director-General Adeola Ajayi for supporting operations in Kogi. He noted that the DSS is overseeing the profiling and training of recruits to ensure professionalism, competence and accountability.
While reaffirming his administration’s commitment to expanding security manpower, Ododo stressed that only individuals of proven character, integrity and loyalty would be entrusted with the responsibility of protecting lives and property. He expressed confidence in the trainees as a valuable addition to the state’s security architecture.
The visit came a day after the governor inspected the first batch of Armoured Personnel Carriers procured by the state government to enhance the operational capacity and combat readiness of security agencies. Ododo said security remains a top priority and pledged sustained investment in personnel, equipment and intelligence-driven operations.
Ododo assured residents that the government would continue to intensify efforts until all parts of Kogi are secured. The Forest Guard initiative is part of a nationwide programme approved by President Tinubu on May 15 to secure the country’s 1,129 designated forests and flush out terrorists, bandits and criminal gangs through joint federal and state security efforts.
