The Nigerian federal government has expanded the presidential forest guards initiative to 10 states as part of efforts to tackle banditry, kidnapping, and other violent crimes. The latest phase covers Kaduna, Edo, and Kogi states, where more than 2,000 forest guards have been deployed.
The initiative, which was launched in 2025, aims to secure Nigeria's forests, which have become hideouts for criminal gangs. The expansion was announced by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, during a ceremony in Abuja.
According to official statements, the forest guards are trained to collaborate with local communities and security agencies to gather intelligence and respond to threats. The government plans to extend the initiative to all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory in phases.
This move is part of broader efforts to improve national security, as the government seeks to address the root causes of insecurity, including poverty and unemployment in rural areas.
