President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has issued an immediate order to arm Nigeria’s forest guards. This directive aims to strengthen the country’s fight against kidnapping and terrorism.
The President announced the decision on Wednesday during the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting at the State House in Abuja.
He directed National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu to oversee the process. The NSA must now ensure these officers receive proper training and the necessary weapons.
Protecting Exposed Communities
President Tinubu emphasized the need for urgent action. He stated that the current security climate requires an all-hands-on-deck approach.
He compared the forest guards to the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC). Since the NSCDC carries arms, the President argued that forest rangers should have similar power to protect vulnerable areas.
“I know some of our people are exposed, and I understand that we have to make exceptional provision for them,” Tinubu stated.
“Civil defence is equally armed, and I want to know that from the NSA to arm our forest guards too, take it very seriously.”
The President highlighted the widespread threat of terrorism and abduction. He insisted that the government must utilize every available security asset.
“We need all the forces we can utilize. We need to protect our people,” he added.
VIP Police Withdrawal Reaffirmed
President Tinubu also addressed the Nigeria Police Force during the meeting.
He doubled down on his recent directive to withdraw police operatives attached to Very Important Persons (VIPs).
The President insisted these officers must return to core policing duties. He wants them redeployed to support the war on insurgency.
This reaffirmation follows reports that some officers still perform private escort duties despite the ban. The President’s stance signals a renewed push to enforce the order and optimize manpower for national security.
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