Operation Reclaim the Forests: Tinubu Approves 130,000 Armed Forest Guards to Tackle Insecurity Nationwide


In a bold move to tackle Nigeria’s escalating insecurity, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of a National Forest Guard system and authorized the recruitment of over 130,000 armed operatives to secure the country’s 1,129 forest reserves.

This strategic intervention was announced during an expanded Federal Executive Council meeting chaired by the President. The Forest Guard initiative will serve as a critical step in reclaiming Nigeria’s forest zones often used as hideouts by terrorists, kidnappers, and bandits.

According to the directive, each state across the federation is expected to recruit between 2,000 to 5,000 young operatives. The recruitment will be coordinated by the Office of the National Security Adviser in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and respective state governments.

President Tinubu emphasized that no part of Nigeria would be left unprotected. "We will not allow our forests to remain a sanctuary for criminals. This is a decisive step toward national stability," he stated during a recent visit to Katsina State.

The newly recruited forest guards will undergo intensive military-style training and will be fully armed, making them capable of launching operations and flushing out criminal elements hidden in difficult terrains.

Beyond Security: Youth Empowerment

Aside from improving security, the initiative is poised to create massive employment opportunities. With over 130,000 openings nationwide, the Forest Guard system is expected to significantly reduce youth unemployment, provide skill acquisition, and foster community involvement in local security.

This marks a dual-impact policy, protecting lives while empowering livelihoods.

Why This Matters

Boosts National Security: Directly targets the roots of forest-based terrorism and banditry.

Creates Jobs: Over 130,000 opportunities for Nigerian youths.

Federal-State Collaboration: Enhances synergy between federal and state governments.

Environmental Protection: Secures forest reserves from illegal exploitation.

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