First, the Federal Government graduated over 7,000 forest guards from seven states nationwide.
Next, the guards completed a three-month training under the Presidential Forest Guards Initiative launched in May 2025.
Strengthening Forest Security
Meanwhile, the Office of the National Security Adviser coordinated the programme with state governments.
On Saturday, Rabiu Ibrahim confirmed the development in an official statement.
He serves as Special Assistant on Media to the Minister of Information.
Subsequently, authorities held graduation ceremonies on December 27, 2025 across seven states.
These states include Borno, Sokoto, Yobe, Adamawa, Niger, Kwara, and Kebbi.
Through the initiative, the government targets forests used by terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers.
Intensive Training Programme
According to officials, trainers designed the programme to be intensive and structured.
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During training, recruits completed rigorous physical and mental conditioning.
Specifically, they carried out endurance drills, obstacle courses, and long-range patrol simulations.
In addition, instructors taught human rights and International Humanitarian Law.
They also emphasised gender rights and civilian protection.
Furthermore, trainers enforced strict weapons handling and use-of-force rules under an approved Arms Management Manual.
Immediate Deployment Plan
Commenting on the effort, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu said the guards will support security agencies.
In practice, they will hold ground and gather intelligence.
At the same time, Ribadu confirmed that deployment has already begun.
Importantly, he said graduation would not delay deployment.
As a result, salaries and allowances will begin immediately.
Looking ahead, the government plans to expand the programme nationwide.
Meanwhile, multiple agencies jointly run the Forest Guard initiative.
These agencies include ONSA, the Ministry of Environment, DSS, and the National Park Service.
Additionally, the armed forces, police, and NSCDC provide operational support.
Notably, the graduation follows the government’s decision to label kidnappers as terrorists.
Consequently, the move signals a tougher response to abductions and rural violence.
Finally, officials say the forest guards will close security gaps in remote areas.
