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The Special Adviser to Gov. Ahmed Aliyu on Security, Col. Ahmed Usman (rtd), has cautioned against the proposed recruitment and deployment of forest guards for high-risk security operations.
Usman warned that such a move could worsen the country’s already fragile security landscape.
This contained statement issued to the newsmen emphasizing that while forest guards play a crucial role in safeguarding forests, wildlife, and natural resources, their core responsibilities don’t align with frontline law enforcement or counterinsurgency efforts.
” Forest guards are primarily tasked with protecting forest resources, preventing illegal logging and poaching, and supporting environmental protection efforts, he noted.
” Though they may receive basic security training, they aren’t structured or equipped to handle complex high-risk security operations, ” he said.
Usman underscored that specialized security forces, such as the police, military, or Special Forces, are better suited to handle areas facing elevated security threats.
He further warned that improper deployment of forest guards could create a vulnerable and underprepared faction within the broader security architecture, exposing them to unnecessary danger.
“Without a clear mandate and proper training, deploying forest guards in volatile areas may lead to chaos and confusion, compounding the nation’s security problems rather than resolving them,” he cautioned.
The retired Officer advocated for a community-driven approach to security, highlighting the value of grassroots engagement in building trust and addressing root causes of insecurity.
“By focusing on dialogue and collaboration with local communities, we can mitigate security risks and avoid adding another layer of vulnerability to an already strained system,” he said.
The statement comes amid discussions among state governments on recruiting forest guards to tackle insecurity. Col. Usman’s comments serve as a reminder of the importance of strategic planning and coordination in security-related decisions.
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