Tinubu approves 1,000 forest guards for Katsina in security boost

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards to strengthen security operations in Katsina State, according to Dikko Umaru Radda, Governor of Katsina State.

Radda disclosed this after a meeting with Islamic clerics and key stakeholders at the Government House, Katsina, aimed at exploring community-driven solutions to banditry and kidnapping.

He said, “the purpose of this meeting was to hear directly from Islamic clerics, to understand their perspectives on the current security challenges, and to seek their advice on the way forward”.

He stressed that tackling insecurity requires community participation, noting that some residents aid criminal networks through intelligence sharing and the sale of stolen livestock.

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“This problem cannot be solved only through the efforts of security agencies. Individuals and communities have very important roles to play in curbing banditry and kidnapping,” he said.

The governor said his administration had introduced measures to disrupt criminal activities, including restrictions on motorcycles, POS operations, informal charging points and petroleum sales in affected areas.

Announcing the approval of the forest guards, Radda thanked President Tinubu for supporting the state’s security efforts.

“I want to thank Mr. President for approving our request to recruit 1,000 young, able-bodied men and women as forest guards. They will work alongside conventional security agencies and community watch groups,” he said.

He also commended the increased deployment of military, police and DSS personnel to the state.

“The level of deployment we have seen from the military, police and DSS is highly encouraging. This is a coordinated effort we deeply appreciate,” he said.

Radda urged residents to support government efforts, saying, “Security is a collective responsibility. We urge all citizens to cooperate with authorities and contribute to peace in our communities”.