By Davidson Ogbebor

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has charged 497 newly trained Forest Guards to take up the responsibility of securing ungoverned forest areas across the state as part of efforts to strengthen Edo’s security architecture.

The governor gave the charge on Monday during the passing-out parade and induction ceremony of the recruits held at the Police Training School, Ogida Barracks, Benin City.

Represented by the Chief of Staff, Mr. Musa Yakubu, Governor Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to improving security and ensuring that residents live in a peaceful and safe environment.

Congratulating the recruits on the successful completion of their rigorous training programme, the governor urged them to demonstrate discipline, professionalism and integrity as they commence active service in forest communities across the state.

He described the Forest Guard initiative as a critical component of his administration’s security strategy aimed at reclaiming forest reserves from criminal elements, curbing illegal activities and enhancing public safety.

According to him, “The training you have undergone is only the beginning of your responsibility. As you step into active service, remember that you are ambassadors of Edo State. The people expect courage, discipline and dedication from you. Your duty is to protect our forests, support law enforcement agencies and contribute to the peace and security of our dear state.”

Governor Okpebholo also encouraged the newly inducted personnel to remain committed to excellence, assuring them that outstanding dedication and professionalism would be recognised and rewarded.

Also speaking, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, represented by Commissioner of Police Aniefiok Akpan, congratulated the graduates and disclosed that they would be deployed immediately across the 18 local government areas of Edo State, with special emphasis on ungoverned forest areas vulnerable to criminal activities.

The deployment, he noted, is expected to bolster ongoing efforts by security agencies to combat kidnapping, armed banditry and other crimes, while improving safety in rural communities and forest corridors across the state.

Signed:

Dr. Patrick Akhere Ebojele
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Edo State