By Miriam Humbe
The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division Nigerian Army (NA) and Commander Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna has operationalised the deployment of forest guards in Arewa Local Government Area of Kebbi State and donated logistics items to support the 170 Forest Guards.
A statement signed on Wednesday by Lt Col Olaniyi Osoba, the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations
8 Division, Nigerian Army/Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, said the action was in a renewed push to protect vulnerable communities in Kebbi State.
The GOC noted that the Forest Guards are to operate under the control of the NA.
The GOC made the presentation during the Forest Guards’ operationalisation ceremony at Headquarters Kangiwa, Arewa Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
The logistics support package includes 10 brand-new motorcycles, 170 sleeping kits and essential food supplies, aimed at improving mobility, welfare, and operational effectiveness of the forest guards in the fight against terrorism, banditry and other criminal activities across the state and the wider North-West region.
Leading the initiative, Major General Koughna said the items were provided to enhance the guards’ capacity to respond quickly to security threats, sustain field operations and maintain morale.
He noted that the motorcycles would strengthen patrol coverage and rapid response, while the sleeping kits and food supplies would support the welfare and effectiveness of personnel deployed in remote areas.
Major General Koughna charged the newly inaugurated Forest Guards to remain disciplined, focused and committed to their responsibilities, stressing that victory over terrorism and banditry requires teamwork, synergy and sustained dedication.
He also conveyed the good wishes of the Chief of Army staff to the Forest Guards and urged them not to use their weapons against law abiding citizens.
Representing His Excellency, Dr Nasir Idris, Executive Governor of Kebbi State, the Honourable Commissioner for Home Affairs and Internal Security, Haliru Aliyu Wasabu, applauded the Nigerian Army for the timely intervention and strong collaboration with the state government.
He described the donation as a clear demonstration of the Army’s commitment to restoring peace and security and reaffirmed the state’s readiness to work closely with the military and other security agencies to curb criminality decisively
The donation and inauguration highlights ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Army and Kebbi State Government to strengthen community-based security structures and consolidate gains against insurgency and banditry in the North-West region
