The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West), Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, has operationalised the deployment of Forest Guards in Arewa Local Government Area of Kebbi State, alongside the donation of logistics support to enhance their operations.
The operationalisation ceremony took place at the Headquarters Kangiwa in Arewa LGA, where the GOC formally inaugurated 170 Forest Guards who are to operate under the control and supervision of the Nigerian Army.
As part of efforts to strengthen community-based security architecture, Major General Koughna presented a logistics support package comprising 10 brand-new motorcycles, 170 sleeping kits, and essential food supplies. The items are aimed at improving mobility, welfare, and overall operational effectiveness of the guards in combating terrorism, banditry, and other criminal activities across Kebbi State and the wider North-West region.
Speaking during the ceremony, the GOC explained that the motorcycles would enhance patrol coverage and enable rapid response to emerging security threats, particularly in hard-to-reach and forested areas. He added that the sleeping kits and food supplies would support the welfare and morale of personnel deployed for extended operations in remote locations.
Major General Koughna charged the newly inaugurated Forest Guards to remain disciplined, focused, and committed to their mandate, noting that sustained collaboration, teamwork, and dedication are critical to defeating terrorism and banditry. He also conveyed the goodwill message of the Chief of Army Staff, urged the guards to act professionally and refrain from using their weapons against law-abiding citizens.
Representing the Governor of Kebbi State, Dr Nasir Idris, the Honourable Commissioner for Home Affairs and Internal Security, Haliru Aliyu Wasabu, commended the Nigerian Army for what he described as a timely intervention and strong collaboration with the state government. He said the donation underscores the Army’s commitment to restoring peace and security in the state.
The commissioner reaffirmed the readiness of the Kebbi State Government to continue working closely with the military and other security agencies to decisively tackle criminality.
The inauguration and donation mark another step in ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Army and the Kebbi State Government to consolidate security gains and strengthen grassroots security structures in the North-West region.
