No Safe Haven for Bandits, Ododo Vows, Unveils Stronger Forest Security Strategy

Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has declared that terrorists, bandits, and other violent criminals will find no safe haven in the state, as his administration intensifies efforts to strengthen internal security.

The governor said his government would deploy all lawful resources available to protect residents, visitors, and communities across Kogi State.

He made the remarks on Sunday during a visit to the training camp of newly recruited Forest Guard personnel in Lokoja, the state capital.

‘We Will Reclaim Our Forests’ — Ododo
Governor Ododo said his administration is committed to reclaiming forests and other vulnerable areas that have allegedly been used as hideouts by criminal elements.

According to him, the presence of vast and poorly monitored forest zones in parts of the state has contributed to security challenges, enabling attacks on innocent citizens.

“The vast and largely unguarded forest areas in some parts of the state have become a major security challenge, providing hideouts for criminal groups and enabling attacks on innocent citizens,” he said.

He added that his government remains determined to ensure such locations no longer serve as operational bases for criminals.

Forest Guards Central To Security Strategy
Ododo explained that the recruitment and training of Forest Guards form a key component of Kogi State’s broader security architecture.

He said the initiative is designed to strengthen surveillance, deny criminals access to forest hideouts, and improve the capacity of security agencies to respond swiftly to threats.

“The recruitment and training of Forest Guards form a key component of the state’s security strategy aimed at strengthening surveillance and denying criminals access to safe havens,” the governor said.

He urged the trainees to approach their assignment with discipline, patriotism, and a strong sense of responsibility, noting that their role is critical to safeguarding lives and property.

Governor Ododo disclosed that the Forest Guard Programme is part of a national security initiative approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and being implemented through the Office of the National Security Adviser in collaboration with the Department of State Services (DSS) and other security agencies.

He commended the President for his commitment to strengthening national security, as well as National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu for his role in driving security reforms.

Ododo also praised the DSS Director-General, Adeola Ajayi, for supporting recruitment, profiling, and training processes to ensure professionalism and accountability among the forest guards.

Boosting Security Capacity In Kogi
The governor reiterated that his administration would continue to expand security manpower and invest in modern equipment to combat crime effectively.

He stressed that only individuals with proven integrity, discipline, and loyalty would be considered for sensitive security responsibilities.

Ododo expressed confidence in the newly recruited trainees, describing them as a vital addition to the state’s security framework.

He further urged them to remain focused during training and prepare adequately for the challenges ahead.

Commitment To Safer Communities
The visit to the training camp came a day after Governor Ododo inspected newly acquired Armoured Personnel Carriers procured by the state government to enhance operational effectiveness of security agencies.

He said security remains a top priority of his administration and assured residents of sustained investment in personnel, intelligence, and equipment.

Ododo reaffirmed his commitment to ensuring that citizens can live and conduct their activities without fear of attack, kidnapping, or harassment.

He also called for continued collaboration between federal agencies, local stakeholders, and communities in the fight against insecurity in Kogi State.