By Rotimi Odofin
Lokoja, June 14, 2026 – Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has reaffirmed his administration’s determination to reclaim the state’s forests from criminal elements, declaring that there will be no safe haven for terrorists, bandits, and other violent criminals operating within Kogi State.
The governor made the declaration during a visit to the training camp of newly recruited Forest Guard trainees, where he urged them to embrace their responsibilities with discipline, patriotism, and dedication to service.
Governor Ododo said one of the major security challenges facing the state is the vast expanse of forested areas that have remained largely unoccupied and unguarded, creating opportunities for criminal groups to establish hideouts and launch attacks on communities.
According to him, the recruitment and training of Forest Guards form a key component of the state’s broader security strategy aimed at improving surveillance, denying criminals access to safe havens, and strengthening the capacity of security agencies to respond effectively to security threats across the state.
The governor explained that the initiative is part of the Forest Guard Programme approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and is being implemented through the Office of the National Security Adviser in collaboration with the Department of State Services and other security institutions.
Governor Ododo commended President Tinubu for his commitment to strengthening national security and empowering states with innovative approaches to tackle emerging security challenges. He also praised the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, for his leadership and support in advancing security reforms across the country.
The governor further lauded the Director-General of the Department of State Services, Adeola Oluwatosin Ajayi, for his support towards security operations in Kogi State. He noted that the DSS has continued to play a crucial role in supporting security efforts in the state and is currently overseeing the profiling and training of Forest Guard recruits to ensure professionalism and accountability.
Ododo stressed that while his administration is committed to expanding security manpower, it remains focused on ensuring that only individuals of proven integrity, loyalty, and good character are entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding lives and property.
Expressing confidence in the trainees, the governor described them as a vital addition to the state’s security architecture and urged them to take their training seriously in preparation for the task ahead.
He reiterated his administration’s resolve to rid Kogi State and its forests of criminal elements, assuring residents that every lawful measure would be deployed to guarantee the safety of lives and property.
The visit came barely a day after the governor inspected the first batch of Armoured Personnel Carriers procured by the state government to enhance the operational capacity and combat readiness of security agencies.
Governor Ododo maintained that security remains a top priority of his administration and pledged continued investment in personnel, equipment, and intelligence-driven operations to make Kogi State safer and more attractive for investment and development.
He assured residents that the government would not relent until every part of the state is secure and citizens can go about their lawful activities without fear.
The statement was contained in a release signed by the Kogi State Commissioner for Information and Communications, Kingsley Femi Fanwo, on Sunday.
