The General Officer Commanding 8 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander, Sector 2 of Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, has activated the deployment of 170 Forest Guards to Arewa Local Government Area of Kebbi State as part of efforts to bolster security in vulnerable communities.
The inauguration ceremony was held on Tuesday at the military headquarters in Kangiwa, Arewa LGA, where the GOC also handed over operational materials to enhance the performance of the guards, who will function under the supervision of the Nigerian Army.
Items distributed include 10 new motorcycles, 170 sleeping kits and food supplies to support mobility, welfare and operational efficiency in ongoing operations against terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality in Kebbi and the wider North-West region.
Koughna explained that the initiative was aimed at strengthening rapid response and sustaining operations, particularly in forested and hard-to-reach locations frequently used as hideouts by criminal elements.
“The motorcycles will significantly improve patrol coverage and response time, while the sleeping kits and food supplies will strengthen the morale and welfare of personnel deployed in difficult terrains.
“I urge you (Forest Guards) to remain disciplined, focused and professional in the discharge of your duties.
“Defeating insecurity requires teamwork, synergy and sustained commitment. Let me also convey the goodwill of the Chief of Army Staff, who cautioned the guards against using their weapons against law-abiding citizens,” he added.
Representing Governor Nasir Idris, the Kebbi State Commissioner for Home Affairs and Internal Security, Haliru Aliyu Wasabu, praised the Nigerian Army for what he described as a prompt intervention and effective collaboration with the state government.
He said the gesture reflects the military’s resolve to restore lasting peace, while reaffirming the state government’s commitment to partnering security agencies to stamp out criminal activities.
The deployment of the Forest Guards is expected to reinforce community-based security frameworks and consolidate ongoing gains against insurgency and banditry across the North-West.