Tinubu approves 1,000 forest guards for Katsina State

President Bola Tinubu has given the green light to hire 1,000 forest guards for Katsina State. This move aims to boost security in forest communities and areas at risk from bandit attacks.

Governor Dikko Radda shared this news on Tuesday. He spoke to reporters after a meeting with Islamic clerics and other important people about tackling insecurity in the state.

This decision comes as Katsina fights against banditry, kidnapping, and cattle rustling in many local government areas. These issues are especially bad in communities near forests, which have become hideouts for armed groups.

“I want to appreciate 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,” Mr Radda said.

The governor explained that the recruits will receive training and gear to help security operations in remote areas and forests where criminals often operate. He also thanked the Federal Government for increasing military, police, and intelligence personnel in 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.

Community-focused security plans

This approval adds to Katsina’s focus on community-based security efforts as officials try to support military actions against armed groups in the North-west.

Katsina already has the Community Watch Corps, a local group set up to assist conventional security forces with intelligence and surveillance. Mr Radda noted that real peace needs teamwork between security forces and local people. He said residents often have vital information that can disrupt criminal activities.

He highlighted that talks with religious leaders are part of wider plans to create community-led solutions to insecurity. “The purpose of this meeting was to hear directly from Islamic clerics, understand their perspectives on the current security challenges and seek their advice on the way forward,” he said.

The governor added that fighting insecurity needs more than just military action. “The fight against banditry cannot be left to security agencies alone. Community participation remains critical to achieving lasting peace,” he said.

Criminal activities linked to communities

Mr Radda pointed out that investigations have revealed that criminal groups often depend on support from local communities. He said some residents help these groups by moving supplies, sharing information, and helping to sell stolen cattle.

“Most of their supply chains, information networks and even the sale of stolen animals involve people living among us. This is why there is a need to sensitize the entire community so that everyone plays their part,” he said.

He described Islamic clerics as key allies in promoting good social values and discouraging actions that support crime. “Clerics play an important role in guiding the moral values of society. We presented the challenges to them and sought their counsel as we work towards lasting solutions,” he said.

Measures against motorcycles and fuel sales

The governor said the state government will keep enforcing actions aimed at disrupting armed groups' operations. He mentioned recent bans on motorcycles in some local government areas, including Musawa and Matazu, where security forces are stepping up efforts against bandits.

“We have taken decisive steps, including banning the use of motorcycles in some affected local government areas such as Musawa and Matazu, as well as restricting the use of POS machines and informal charging points that facilitate criminal activities,” he said.

Mr Radda also mentioned a new restriction on the sale, transportation, and storage of fuel in jerrycans. Authorities say this measure will cut off fuel supplies used by criminal groups hiding in forests. This restriction came after an emergency security meeting with security agencies and traditional rulers.

According to the governor, these measures were discussed with community leaders from affected areas. “These measures were introduced after consultations with community leaders from affected areas, and we will continue to engage all stakeholders to ensure peace and stability,” he said.

Stronger security operations

This announcement comes as security operations ramp up in parts of Katsina State. Security agencies recently started Operation CLEAN SWEEP III in Matazu and nearby areas after the kidnapping and death of retired Major General Rabe Abubakar, a former Director of Defence Information.

Authorities are also working harder to break down bandit networks in Katsina and nearby states. Meanwhile, Mr Radda urged residents to stay alert and work with security forces.

“Security is a collective responsibility. We urge all citizens to cooperate with authorities and contribute to peace in our communities,” he said.