By Nkechi Eze
The General Officer Commanding 8 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, has operationalised the deployment of 170 Forest Guards in Arewa Local Government Area of Kebbi State as part of renewed efforts to protect vulnerable communities and strengthen security across the North-West.
The initiative, which also saw the donation of key logistics items to support the newly inaugurated personnel, was disclosed in an official signed statement by the Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division Nigerian Army/Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba.
According to the statement, the operationalisation ceremony was held at Headquarters Kangiwa in Arewa Local Government Area, where Major General Koughna presented the logistics package to the Forest Guards. The items donated include 10 brand-new motorcycles, 170 sleeping kits and essential food supplies aimed at enhancing mobility, welfare and operational effectiveness in the fight against terrorism, banditry and other criminal activities across Kebbi State and the wider North-West region.
Addressing the guards, Major General Koughna said the support was designed to boost their capacity to respond swiftly to security threats, sustain field operations and maintain morale in challenging environments. He explained that the motorcycles would improve patrol coverage and enable rapid response, while the sleeping kits and food supplies would ensure the comfort and welfare of personnel deployed in remote areas.
The GOC noted that the Forest Guards would operate under the control of the Nigerian Army, stressing that coordination and discipline would be central to their effectiveness. He charged the personnel to remain focused, professional and committed to their mandate, emphasising that defeating terrorism and banditry requires teamwork, synergy and sustained dedication. He also conveyed the goodwill of the Chief of Army Staff to the guards and urged them not to misuse their weapons or direct them against law-abiding citizens.
Representing the Governor of Kebbi State, Dr Nasir Idris, the Commissioner for Home Affairs and Internal Security, Haliru Aliyu Wasabu, commended the Nigerian Army for what he described as a timely intervention and strong collaboration with the state government. He said the donation underscored 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 criminality.
The deployment and donation underscore ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Army in partnership with the Kebbi State Government to strengthen community-based security structures and consolidate gains against insurgency and banditry in the North-West region.
