Kogi State Governor Ahmed Ododo has declared that there will be no safe haven for terrorists, bandits, and violent criminals in the state. During a visit to the training camp of newly recruited Forest Guard trainees on Sunday in Lokoja, Ododo stated that the state would deploy all lawful resources necessary to ensure the safety of residents and visitors. He described the recruitment and training of the Forest Guards as a key part of Kogi's security strategy, aimed at strengthening surveillance, denying criminals access to forest hideouts, and improving the response capacity of security agencies.
Ododo said the initiative is part of the Forest Guard Programme approved by President Bola Tinubu on May 15, which targets the country's 1,129 designated forests. The programme is being implemented through the Office of the National Security Adviser in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security institutions. The DSS, under Director-General Adeola Ajayi, is overseeing the profiling and training of recruits to ensure professionalism, competence, and accountability. Ododo commended Tinubu, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and the DSS for their support in advancing security reforms.
The governor emphasized that only individuals of proven character, integrity, and loyalty would be entrusted with protecting lives and property. He expressed confidence in the trainees, calling them a valuable addition to the state's security architecture, and urged them to take their training seriously. This move follows Ododo's inspection of the first batch of Armoured Personnel Carriers procured by the state government to boost the operational capacity of security agencies. He reaffirmed that security remains a top priority and pledged sustained investment in personnel, equipment, and intelligence-driven operations. Residents were assured that efforts would continue until all areas of the state are secure.
Ahmed Ododo is launching Forest Guards while relying on a federal programme approved by President Tinubu, not a state-driven plan. The state's security strategy depends on federal approval and DSS oversight, not independent action. Kogi residents are being assured of safety through forces managed by agencies in Abuja. The governor's pledge to clear forests hinges on resources and structures controlled outside his administration.
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