The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division of the Nigerian Army, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, has operationalised the deployment of 170 Forest Guards in Arewa Local Government Area of Kebbi State, reinforcing efforts to combat terrorism and banditry in the North-West.
Koughna, who also serves as Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, announced that the Forest Guards will operate under the control and supervision of the Nigerian Army to ensure coordination and operational effectiveness.
The operationalisation ceremony, held at Headquarters Kangiwa in Arewa LGA, featured the presentation of logistics support items to enhance the guards’ mobility and welfare. The support package included 10 brand-new motorcycles, 170 sleeping kits and essential food supplies.
According to the GOC, the items were provided to strengthen rapid response capabilities, sustain field operations and maintain high morale among personnel deployed in remote and vulnerable communities.
He noted that the motorcycles would significantly improve patrol coverage and response time to security threats, while the sleeping kits and food supplies would support the welfare and operational readiness of the guards in difficult terrains.
Major General Koughna charged the newly inaugurated Forest Guards to remain disciplined, focused and committed to their duties, stressing that defeating terrorism and banditry requires teamwork, synergy and sustained dedication. He also conveyed the goodwill of the Chief of Army Staff and cautioned the guards against the misuse of their weapons, urging them to respect and protect law-abiding citizens.
Representing Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris, the Commissioner for Home Affairs and Internal Security, Haliru Aliyu Wasabu, commended the Army for what he described as a timely intervention and strong collaboration with the state government.
He described the donation as a clear demonstration of the Army’s commitment to restoring peace and security and reaffirmed the state government’s readiness to continue working closely with the military and other security agencies to decisively curb criminal activities.
Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Nigerian Army / Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, in a statement, disclosed that the deployment and logistics support form part of sustained efforts by the Nigerian Army and the Kebbi State Government to strengthen community-based security structures and consolidate gains against insurgency and banditry across the North-West region.
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