News Agency of Nigeria
NSA hails agencies for destroying 207 containers of illegal drugs
Defence/Security

NSA hails agencies for destroying 207 containers of illegal drugs

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has commended the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for their efforts in combating illegal drugs.

He lauded their successful seizure and destruction of 207 containers of illegal and unregistered drugs, highlighting it as a major achievement in protecting public health and safety.

Ribadu, speaking at the closing session of the Committee for the Destruction of Illegally Imported Pharmaceuticals on Tuesday in Abuja, expressed President Bola Tinubu’s appreciation for the effective collaboration among the three agencies.

He lauded their efforts in preventing harmful drugs from reaching the public, particularly youth and vulnerable groups.

“These criminals don’t care about the damage they cause, but you have chosen to stand and fight for the country.

“We will not relent,” Ribadu said, stressing that Nigeria was undergoing a transformation and would no longer tolerate such threats.

He also highlighted his office’s collaboration with Customs in combating the proliferation of illegal arms and ammunition, which he linked to rising insecurity, including banditry and terrorism.

Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adeniyi, noted that the scale of the seizure prompted the declaration of a state of emergency.

He emphasised the need for inter-agency cooperation for joint examination, investigation, and prosecution, adding that more containers had been discovered with ONSA’s guidance.

“We will remain vigilant to ensure controlled substances don’t fall into the wrong hands,” Adeniyi assured.

NAFDAC Director-General, Prof. Moji Adeyeye, thanked the NSA for supporting enforcement actions, including a major February raid with 1,350 security personnel.

She revealed that 137 truckloads of banned products were destroyed after raids in Idumota, Aba, and Onitsha.

NDLEA Secretary, Mr Shadrach Haruna, also lauded the NSA’s coordination, noting that the joint operation reduced the agency’s burden and supported legal destruction of the seized drugs.

He added that removing such illicit products had also improved the ease of doing business.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Human right group lauds Nigerian military on security gains
Defence/Security

Human right group lauds Nigerian military on security gains

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Coalition for Human Rights and Freedom (CHRF) has lauded the Nigerian Armed Forces for their unwavering efforts in restoring security and stability to the country, particularly in the Northern region.

The group, in a statement by its Secretary General, Tijjani Lawal, on Tuesday, threw its weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.

Lawal hailed the strategic leadership of the Minister of Defence, Alhaji Mohammed Badaru, whose stewardship, according to him, has driven remarkable progress in the fight against terrorism and banditry over the past two years.

“CHRF wishes to express its profound appreciation for the unwavering efforts and sacrifices made by the Nigerian troops, as well as the strategic initiatives undertaken by the Ministry of Defence under the stewardship of Minister Badaru Abubakar.

“Over the past two years, these commendable actions have significantly advanced the fight against insecurity, particularly in the northern region of our great nation.

“The relentless operations spearheaded by the Defence Ministry, particularly in collaboration with the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), have yielded remarkable successes in dismantling the strongholds of Boko Haram and the Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP),” he said.

Lawal said the concerted efforts have led to the killing of numerous high-value terrorists with vast territories previously under terrorist control being reclaimed.

He said the progress not only reflects the military’s tactical proficiency but also underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing transnational threats.

According to him, the Defence Ministry has enhanced intelligence sharing and deployed advanced surveillance technologies in the Lake Chad region.

These initiatives, he said had fortified the cross-border response capabilities and had been instrumental in countering the multifaceted security crises that plague our nation.

“From the desperate attacks in the northeast to the rampant banditry and kidnappings in the northwest, the Nigerian troops have demonstrated resilience and adaptability, crucial attributes in the ongoing battle against these evolving threats.

“Under the visionary leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whose administration has prioritized security as a fundamental pillar of governance, the Defence Ministry has been invigorated with a renewed sense of purpose.

“The President’s firm directive, “Enough is enough,” resonates not only as a rallying cry for our military but also as a clarion call for all Nigerians to unite in overcoming the challenges that threaten our peace and stability,” he said.

The group said the political will of President Tinubu had galvanised efforts across the nation, fostering a collaborative environment among all stakeholders in the security sector.

They said that the collaborative approach had yielded tangible results, including the neutralisation of over 13,500 terrorists and criminals and the rescue of nearly 10,000 hostages from the clutches of terror.

According to the group, the operational successes recorded in the northeast, northwest, and north-central regions of Nigeria are a testament to the effectiveness of the government’s strategies.

“The neutralisation of notorious bandit kingpins and the disruption of criminal networks have restored a semblance of peace to many communities, allowing thousands of displaced citizens to return to their homes.

“The gradual resurgence of socio-economic activities in areas previously besieged by violence is a clear indication that our military efforts are making a tangible difference in the lives of ordinary Nigerians.

“It is crucial to recognize that the fight against insecurity extends beyond mere military engagement.

“The CHRF firmly believes that a holistic approach, combining military action with socio-economic development and robust governance, is essential for achieving lasting peace,” he said.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Muhyideen Jimoh

Eid-el-Kabir: CP orders visibility policing, intelligence-led raids in FCT
Defence/Security , General News

Eid-el-Kabir: CP orders visibility policing, intelligence-led raids in FCT

Raids

By Monday Ijeh

The Commissioner of Police (CP) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Mr Ajao Adewale, has ordered heightened visibility policing and sustained intelligence-led raids on black spots in the territory ahead of the 2025 Eid-el-Kabir celebrations.

The Police Public Relations Officer in the FCT, SP Josephine Adeh,  disclosed this in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja.

Adeh said that the CP gave the order during a strategic security meeting with Area Commanders, Divisional Police Officers (DPOs), and heads of Tactical Teams in the command.

Adewale said the meeting was to ensure a safe and secured FCT ahead of the forthcoming Inspector General of Police (I-G) Award Night, the Eid-el-Kabir celebrations and the June 12 Democracy Day commemoration.

He said the focus of the meeting was to fine-tune operational deployments, reinforcement of professionalism and accountability in policing efforts during the period.

“You must strengthen security within your respective Areas of Responsibility (AORs) and ensure heightened visibility policing, particularly at all strategic entry and exit points into the city.

“This is in anticipation of the arrival of very senior police officers and other dignitaries from across the country for the I-G’s event,”he said.

The CP ordered the deployment of Explosive Ordinance Disposal (EOD) teams to sweep worship and recreational centres ahead of expected events.

He directed the senior police officers to sustain intelligence-led raids on identified black spots known for illicit drug activities in a professional manner, devoid of abuse.

The CP warned the officers against any form of extortion and urged the officers to be smartly dressed, disciplined, and courteous in their interactions with the public.

“You must not be involved in civil disputes, particularly land-related matters and your continuous raids on identified spots must not serve as a cover for harassment or illegal financial demands.

“You must reinforce the standing order that bail is free; any officer found requesting money for bail will be dealt with in accordance with established disciplinary procedures,”the CP said.

He ordered the DPOs to ensure strict supervision and accountability of all personnel under their command, adding that searching of mobile phones without appropriate legal authority was prohibited.

The CP ordered all officers to be camera-friendly, approachable, and uphold the image of the force and ensure swift and efficient response to distress calls.

He ordered crackdown on vehicles bearing fake or fraudulently acquired diplomatic number plates and urged the DPOs to initiate youth engagement programme.

Adewale said the idea was to foster close collaboration with local communities to promote community policing and crime prevention. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Remi Koleoso/Bayo Sekoni

Suspected employment fraudster hands self to EFCC
Defence/Security

Suspected employment fraudster hands self to EFCC

Suspect
By Isaac Aregbesola
A suspected employment fraudster, Idris Adamu, has handed himself over to the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) in Gombe State over alleged impersonation and obtaining by false pretence.

EFCC spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, said this in a statement on Monday in Abuja.

Oyewale explained that there was a mild drama at the EFCC Gombe Zonal Directorate, when the middle-aged man walked into the office premises and reported himself over the alleged offences.

He said that the self-confessed suspect cited the fear of the EFCC for his action.

“The suspect, Idris Adamu, walked into the office of the EFCC at about 1300hrs and requested to see the Acting Zonal Director, Deputy Commander of the EFCC (DCE), Sa’ad Hanafi Sa’ad.

“He said he wanted to confess some hidden truths about the crimes he had committed in the past,“ he said.

According to him, while at the Directors office, the suspect said,” I came to repent of my sins and to confess to the EFCC.

“In the past, I have obtained the aggregate sum of N9 million through my bank account from different individuals in the guise of offering them employment opportunities in Federal Government agencies which was false.

“I have changed but I am afraid of the EFCC,“ he quoted the suspect as saying.

Oyewale said the acting zonal director after listening to his confession, thanked him for speaking to the EFCC.

According to him, Sa’ad therefore, directed that the self-confessed suspect be taken to the investigation department for a thorough investigation of the case. (NAN)(www.nannnews.ng)

Edited by Tayo Ikujuni

NAF airstrikes kill  20 terrorists in Zamfara
Defence/Security

NAF airstrikes kill  20 terrorists in Zamfara

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) has eliminated no fewer than 20 armed terrorists and destroyed over 21 motorcycles during an air interdiction operation on May 31 in Zamfara.

The Director of Public Relations and Information, NAF, Air Commodore Ehimen Ejodame, on Monday, said the operation was carried out in the general area south of Mai-Galma in Maru Local Government Area,

Ejodame said the operation was aimed at halting a planned large-scale attack on vulnerable communities by armed bandits.

He said that intelligence received indicated that a significant number of terrorists were massing and preparing to strike unsuspecting settlements.

According to him, further intelligence confirmed that the bandits had killed some farmers and abducted a number of civilians, including women and children.

“Consequently, NAF aircraft under Operation FANSAN YAMMA was immediately dispatched on armed reconnaissance and possible rescue mission.

“On arrival at the area, over 30 motorcycles carrying armed terrorists heading into the nearby forest were positively identified.

“On sighting the aircraft, the terrorists opened fire, prompting a precision engagement that led to the destruction of several motorcycles and the neutralisation of dozens of terrorists.

“Ground forces were immediately mobilised to exploit the situation.

“They confirmed the destruction of enemy assets and the neutralisation of over 20 terrorists,” he said.

Ejodame said that two local vigilantes lost their lives and two others sustained injuries in the course of the operation.

He said NAF deeply regrets the loss of those brave vigilantes, adding that it remains committed to working with local communities to ensure the safety and security of all citizens.

According to him, efforts are ongoing to track and rescue the kidnapped villagers who were taken into the adjoining forest.

“The NAF reiterates that all its operations are guided by strict rules of engagement, adherence to humanitarian law as well as the NAF Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response Action Plan (CHMRAP), which emphasises the protection of innocent lives even in the face of hostile engagements.

“As investigations continue, the NAF assures the public that all necessary measures are taken to protect civilians while intensifying pressure on criminal elements threatening peace in the region,” he added. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

FRSC intensifies nationwide crackdown on overloading
Defence/Security

FRSC intensifies nationwide crackdown on overloading

By Ibironke Ariyo

The Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC) has directed its commanding officers to step up nationwide enforcement against overloading by vehicles and ensure public safety.

The Corps Public Education Officer (CPEO), Olusegun Ogungbemide, made this known in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Abuja.

Ogungbemide dismissed accusations that the FRSC was not enforcing against overloading, describing it as “not a fact established.”

“There is no place where you visit today where you won’t find overloaded vehicles being impounded for one infraction or the other.

“Evidence of ongoing enforcement is regularly shared on FRSC’s social media platforms, including recent arrests made across various locations.

“In 2024, between January and December, the Corps impounded overloaded vehicles and arrested offenders in all the 12 zones of the FRSC.

“For example, 777 overloaded vehicles were impounded in Kaduna Zone, while 500, 489, 223, 489 and 89 vehicles were impounded in Sokoto, Oshogbo, Bauchi, Lagos and Yola Zones respectively.

“Others include 289, 356, 140, 1,266, 440 and 157 overloaded vehicles impounded in Jos, Benin, PortHarcourt, Abuja, Ilorin and Enugu Zones respectively.

“This brings to the total of overloaded vehicles impounded as 5,217. So, this is ongoing and we won’t relent until road traffic crashes is curbed to the barest minimum on Nigerian roads,” he said.

Ogungbemide, however, acknowledged the challenge of “recalcitrant offenders” who persist in overloading vehicles in spite of repeated arrests adding that the corps conducted daily enforcement operations nationwide.

He said, “we have not relented in advocacy, especially towards commercial drivers and commuters, to discourage entering overloaded vehicles.”

On measures taken to curb the practice, the CPEO stressed that enforcement remained the primary tool, backed by sustained public enlightenment campaigns.

He added that commuters play a critical role in supporting the corps’ efforts by refusing to patronise overloaded vehicles.

“We’ve been doing this for 37 years, but unfortunately, some drivers are still bent on violating traffic safety rules. So, we are enforcing more and engaging the public directly.

“We also believe that if there’s no market for these drivers, it won’t be enticing for them. But when passengers are available, they take advantage and overload,” he said.

The FRSC spokesman also revealed that special directives had been given to command units, particularly in northern regions, to crack down on “mixed loading”.

Ogungbemide explained that “mix loading” which was the transportation of passengers alongside goods and animals in the same vehicle posed serious risks.

“As the country enters a busy travel season, the FRSC has increased its surveillance and engagement efforts to ensure safe transit for all road users,” he assured. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Tinubu inaugurates ships, helicopters into Nigerian Navy fleet
Defence/Security

Tinubu inaugurates ships, helicopters into Nigerian Navy fleet

By Oladapo Udom

President Bola Tinubu has inaugurated three Nigerian Navy Ships (NNS) – NNS SHERE, NNS FARO and NNS IKOGOSI and three AW109 Trekker helicopters: 501, 502 and 503 into the Nigerian Navy fleet.

Tinubu, speaking at the inauguration on Saturday in Lagos, said that the addition of the three Fast Patrol Boats and three maritime surveillance helicopters affirmed the country’s commitment to securing its maritime domain.

The president was represented by the Minister of State for Defence, Mr Bello Matawalle.

“The sea has remained a pillar of our nation’s economic prosperity and for the past 69 years, the Nigerian Navy has stood as the guardian of this blue territory.

“These patrol ships and helicopters are force multipliers in our fight against piracy, oil theft, illegal fishing and other maritime crimes.

“This inauguration is, therefore, a reflection of our determination to empower our institutions and protect our resources,” he said.

Tinubu assured the navy that his government would continue to prioritise its needs, saying, “as a strong navy is the cornerstone of a secure and prosperous economy”.

He commended the Chief of the Naval Staff, Vice Adm. Emmanuel Ogalla, for his leadership in ensuring that the Nigerian Navy had pursued fleet modernisation with vigour, bridging capability gaps and restoring pride to the force.

“Today’s induction is a fruit of your strategic foresight, and I commend you, your team, and all partners who turned this vision into reality.

“I also commend the National Assembly, for its partisan commitment to funding and oversight which are instrumental to achieving this feat.

“Let us sustain this unity of purpose, for the sea does not distinguish between political lines; it demands our collective vigilance,” the president said.

Tinubu also appreciated the international allies and technical partners for their collaboration which underscored a shared truth that maritime security “knows no borders.”

“Together, we are proving that the Gulf of Guinea’s safety is not Nigeria’s burden alone but a global imperative.

“To the officers and ratings who will crew the ships and operate the helicopters, as you operate these assets, remember that the weight of Nigeria’s aspirations rests on your shoulders.

“Let us envision the future they herald: a future where our waters are impervious to criminality; where fishermen cast their nets in peace; where global trade flows unhindered through our ports,” he said.

The president said that the Nigerian Navy remained the guardian of the blue economy and urged them to sail forth with courage and know that a grateful nation stood behind them. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Esenvosa Izah/Vivian Ihechu

NAOWA empowers 199 youths with ICT skills, tools
Defence/Security

NAOWA empowers 199 youths with ICT skills, tools

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA) Institute of Management and Technology in Abuja has empowered 199 barracks youths on Information and Communication Technology (ICT).

The youths were the first batch of ICT trainees under the institute’s Youth Empowerment Project for Barracks Youths 2025 to graduate on Saturday.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the beneficiaries underwent six weeks intensive computer training at the institute.

In his remarks, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, commended NAOWA for providing the youth with the skills needed in the current digital environment for self reliance.

Oluyede, represented by the Chief of Special Services and Programmes, Maj.-Gen. Jamal Abdulsalam, said the training was a powerful testament to what visionary leadership, community commitment, and strategic collaboration could achieve.

He said the programme fully focused on key concerns of the national priorities which include youth empowerment, digital inclusion, and community development.

“Indeed, the initiative not only opens doors for new opportunities, but also lays solid foundation for youth contribution to national development.

“Since its inception, this project has empowered hundreds of young men and women from our barracks communities, first on purpose, then with skills, and finally with confidence to pursue greater works.

“Today’s graduates are joining the legacy, and I believe their stories of the three weeks’ growth and transformation will inspire many others in the months and years to come,” he said.

The COAS said that the ICT intervention was not just a vocational scheme, but a strategic investment in the nation’s future; in a world increasingly driven by technology where digital literacy was as essential as traditional literacy.

He commended the determination and discipline exhibited by the trainees throughout the period, saying they are living proofs that “when opportunity meets preparedness, great things happen”.

Oluyede urged the youth to apply the new skills to improve their lives, uplift others, and contribute to the development of the nation.

He said the Nigerian Army would be resolutely committed to supporting programmes that uplift soldiers’ families, and promote sustainable peace and development in the society.

Earlier, the President of NAOWA and Wife of the COAS, Mrs Mernan Oluyede, said the graduation was a celebration of achievement, progress, and the promise of a brighter future.

Oluyede said the ceremony was not merely the conclusion of training, but marked the beginning of new possibilities, fueled by vision, shaped by determination, and sustained by purposeful leadership.

According to her, at the core of NAOWA’s mission is empowerment through education, training, and skills acquisition borne from the urgent need to create sustainable livelihoods within barracks communities.

“This ICT programme equips our youth with the technical tools and confidence they need to succeed in a technology-driven world.

“This initiative embodies NAOWA’s values of service, compassion, and community development.

“We believe that true empowerment is not a hand-out but a hand-up-building capacity, instilling confidence, and promoting competence for lasting change,” she said.

The NAOWA president said the graduates embraced the challenge, committed themselves to learning, and emerged stronger and better equipped for the future.

She urged them to carry not only their certificates, but also a mindset of resilience, innovation, and excellence, as they stepped out.

Also, the President, Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs Oghogho Musa, represented by Mrs Jane Undiandeye, said that acquiring ICT skills was not just an advantage, but a necessity.

Musa said the youths had been equipped with tools to innovate, compete, and contribute meaningfully to societal development.

“Each of you has shown dedication, resilience, and a hunger for knowledge, ” she urged.

In her remarks, a former President of NAOWA, Mrs Hadiza Dambazau, commended NAOWA for its visionary leadership and dedication to uplifting the barracks communities through impactful programmes.

Dambazau congratulated the graduates for acquiring vital digital and entrepreneurial skills that aligned with the current global economy.

One of the graduates, Josephine John, thanked NAOWA president for providing them the opportunity to acquire means of earning livelihood through the empowerment training.

According to her, life becomes useful and meaningful with productive skills.

“For us, we are not only graduating from this prestigious institute, we have indeed acquired economic skills to decently survive.

“I want to express our collective appreciation to our mother, the NAOWA President for providing the needed resources that facilitated our successful training in NIMTA,” John said. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Esenvosa Izah/Sadiya Hamza

 

Minister wants tractors to replace armoured tanks to boost food security  
Defence/Security

Minister wants tractors to replace armoured tanks to boost food security  

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Federal Government aims to shift from military equipment to agricultural tools, specifically replacing armoured tanks with tractors and machine guns with milking machines, to bolster food security.

The Minister of Livestock Development, Dr Abubakar Maiha, this known during the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Counter Terrorism Centre – Office of the National Security Adviser (NCTC-ONSA) and International Institute for Tropical Agriculture (IITA) on Friday in Abuja.

This initiative, he said, focuses on modernising the livestock sector and increasing food production through technology and precision farming. 

He said the collaboration between NCTC and IITA was a noble framework for integrating ex-combatants into the normal society to support President Bola Tinubu’s agenda on food security.

According to him, once people are productively engaged, they will not be available for recruitment into violent crimes no matter the enticement.

“This is what we are looking at and our vision today in the country we want Nigeria’s countryside to be the symbol of what we want.

“We use tractors to replace armoured tanks, and we want milking machines to replace machine guns because they have no place in our countryside.

“This is what the ministry is driving, and we are going to work with NCTC-ONSA and other MDAs in terms of empowerment of women and youths,” he said.

In her remarks, the Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Hajiya Iman Suleiman -Ibrahim, commended NCTC and IITA for the innovative partnership in advancing Nigeria’s peace and security through inclusive and sustainable approaches.

Suleiman-Ibrahim said that agro-business, allied with the empowerment project, was a vital step in addressing the root causes of violent extremism, particularly amongst vulnerable populations, which includes women, youths, and families at risk.

She emphasised that empowering women and marginalised groups was essential for sustainable peace and development in the country.

According to her, family units, particularly women, are central to community resilience and affirmed commitment to ensuring women’s active participation in livelihood programs through integration and community development initiatives.

Also, Gov. Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State, represented by his Deputy, Dr Emmanuel Akabe, said it was incumbent on levels of government to support the initiative for collective good.

Sule said the North Central region in particular was faced with associated security challenges with attendant consequences on its agriculture and other facets of human development.

He said that application of kinetic approach alone in the fight against insecurity was not sufficient in addressing the peculiar security challenges.

He said that the MOU which targets on enhancing food security and agricultural development would have a better and more sustainable synergy in addressing the nexus between food security, agriculture, and counterterrorism in the country.

On his part, Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Malam Bukarti Tijani, said that Borno alone had over 200,000 repentant terrorist Combatants.

He said the situation had brought to fore the importance of the MoU while looking at non-kinetic approaches to bring more terrorists to voluntarily surrender.

This, according to him, is to ensure that after surrender, communities being resettled would have livelihoods in agriculture as relative peace has come to the region.

“So, the state governments in the Northeast region are battling with their finances to settle and also to find livelihoods,” he said. (NAN) 

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Forest Security Service seeks adoption as National Armed Forest Guard
Defence/Security

Forest Security Service seeks adoption as National Armed Forest Guard

By Monday Ijeh

The Commandant-General (C-G), Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS), Mr Joshua Adewole has called for the adoption of NFSS as National Armed Forest Guard being proposed by the Federal Government.

The C-G made the call on Wednesday in Abuja at the 4th Annual Security Summit of NFSS.

He said the call was in alignment with the pronouncement of President Bola Tinubu on May 15 for the establishment of the National Armed Forest Guard to secure Nigeria’s 1,129 forests.

Adewole said NFSS, with over 50,000 trained personnel over the years with structures and tentacles within communities could fill in the gap to protect the nation’s forest from criminal activities.

He said NFSS had the capacity, training and experience as a result of its collaboration with other security agencies to be adopted as National Armed Forest Guard.

The C-G said the mandate of NFSS was to prevent and deter crime and illegal activities in Nigeria forest, partner with the police and other security agencies by providing relevant information on crimes and criminality within the forest.

“We are the ones that know the terrain, we are not saying there should be no additional equipment to enhance our operations.

“We are appealing to the Federal Government to make NFSS the nucleus of this proposed agenda,” he said.

He said NFSS started as a community-based hunter association in 2016 and had played a very key role in combating insecurity in Nigeria’s forest.

Adewole said NFSS was a voluntary security organisation, registered with the Corporate Affair Commission.

He said the service had over the years played a very significant role in fighting insecurity as a voluntary organization.

Adewole said the formation of NFSS followed the realisation that greater part of Nigerian forests were ungoverned, making them hideouts for criminal elements.

“NFSS carefully identified this gap and took up the responsibility of safeguarding the country’s forests, wildlife and their natural resources.

“It has gradually evolved into a broader security outfit addressing some of the nation’s most pressing security challenges such as insurgency, banditry and kidnapping,” he said.

In his remark, the Inspector-General of Police (I-G), Mr Kayode Egbetokun expressed dismay that the nation’s forests, rich in biodiversity, natural resources and economic potentials had turned to battlegrounds against banditry, kidnapping and illegal mining.

The I-G, represented by the Commissioner of Police in charge of the FCT, Mr Ajao Adewale, said forest security was not a regional concern, but a national priority, demanding a strategic and coordinated approach.

He said deep knowledge of forests, savannahs, and other natural terrains by hunters, as well as their familiarity with the local environments, help to detect unusual activities in communities.

The I-G called on NFSS to strengthen collaboration with local communities to improve intelligence gathering and ensure swift response to security breaches.

According to him, security cannot exist in isolation hence the need to enhance coordination with the police, military and local vigilante groups for rapid intervention strategies.

He urged the service to establish a joint security command unit, dedicated to forest operations to streamline intelligence sharing and tactical execution. (NAN)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

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