President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards for Katsina State to strengthen security operations against banditry and other criminal activities.
Governor Dikko Umaru Radda announced the approval after a stakeholders’ meeting with Islamic clerics at the Government House in Katsina on Tuesday.
The governor described the development as a significant boost to ongoing efforts aimed at restoring peace in the state.
According to Radda, the recruits will consist of young men and women selected to support security operations across vulnerable communities.
He explained that the forest guards would receive training and necessary equipment before deployment to strategic locations.
The personnel are expected to work closely with the military, police, Department of State Services and local vigilante groups.
Their primary responsibility would be securing forested and remote areas often used by criminal gangs as operational bases.
Radda said the initiative formed part of a broader partnership between the federal and state governments to address insecurity.
He noted that coordinated efforts were essential in confronting the security challenges affecting Katsina and neighbouring states.
The governor expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for approving the state’s request for additional security support.
He also commended the federal government for increasing the deployment of security personnel to the state.
According to him, the collaboration between different security agencies has contributed to ongoing efforts to improve safety.
Radda, however, stressed that security agencies cannot succeed without the cooperation of local communities.
He noted that criminal groups often rely on informants, logistics providers and networks that facilitate the sale of stolen livestock.
The governor urged residents to remain vigilant and share useful information with security agencies.
He emphasised that intelligence supplied by community members remained crucial in combating criminal activities.
Radda further called on traditional rulers, religious leaders and community stakeholders to support security initiatives.
He maintained that lasting peace can only be achieved through collective action and shared responsibility.
The governor encouraged citizens to work with authorities to safeguard their communities and protect public safety.
He expressed optimism that the recruitment of the forest guards would strengthen security operations and help reduce criminal activities across the state.
