From Muawuya Bala Idris, Katsina
Katsina State Governor, Malam Dikko Umaru Radda, has presided over the graduation ceremony of 1,008 Forest Guards who successfully completed a two-month intensive training programme aimed at strengthening security operations and protecting forest communities across the state.
The Forest Guard initiative is an inter-agency collaboration between federal and state authorities designed to tackle insecurity in forested areas, protect natural resources and enhance cooperation among security agencies.
Speaking at the ceremony, a representative of the National Security Adviser, I.O. Shotayo, described the programme as an important component of the broader national security strategy.
He explained that the Forest Guards would support existing security operations by serving as first responders, gathering intelligence and assisting security agencies in areas with limited government presence.
He added that the training covered environmental conservation and security-related responsibilities to prepare the recruits for the challenges they might encounter during deployment.
In his remarks, Governor Radda congratulated the newly graduated personnel and urged them to discharge their duties with courage, discipline, dedication and a strong sense of accountability.
The governor described the recruits as guardians of the state’s forests, stressing that their responsibilities extend beyond security operations to include environmental protection and the preservation of natural resources.
He also commended the Federal Government for approving 1,000 Forest Guards for Katsina State, describing the initiative as an important step towards strengthening the state’s security architecture.
Radda noted that security had improved in some parts of the state, resulting in the reopening of markets, roads and schools following ongoing security interventions.
He urged the new Forest Guards to work closely with existing security agencies and community-based security outfits to ensure effective coordination and timely intelligence sharing.
The graduation of the 1,008 personnel marks another step in Katsina State’s efforts to strengthen security presence in vulnerable communities and improve collaboration between government agencies and local residents.