Group Hails Tinubu’s Approval of Oyo Forest Guard, Warns Against Implementation Delays

Michael Olugbode in Abuja

The Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP) praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the recruitment of 1,000 Forest Guards in Oyo State, calling the decision a key step toward bolstering internal security and expanding community‑based protection across Nigeria.

In a statement released on Monday and signed by Chairman Isaac Abrak, the group said the approval signals the Federal Government’s recognition of rising security threats in forested areas and the urgent need to strengthen surveillance and intelligence‑gathering nationwide.

NCYP noted that its stance aligns with an earlier appeal dated 25 May 2026, in which it urged the Federal Government to extend the Forest Guard initiative beyond pilot arrangements and establish similar structures in every state.

While applauding the approval and the ongoing work of security agencies to secure the release of kidnapped school teachers and children in Oyo State, NCYP warned that security policies must move beyond announcements to concrete implementation.

The organisation cited Plateau State, where the Federal Government approved the recruitment of 1,000 Forest Guards after deadly attacks and worsening insecurity in rural communities. According to NCYP, despite the January announcement, the initiative has yet to become operational several months later, exposing a gap between policy approval and execution.

“Security decisions must be fully and rapidly implemented through recruitment, training and deployment. Delays undermine the purpose of such interventions and create opportunities for criminal elements to exploit existing security gaps,” the statement read.

NCYP expressed optimism that the recent appointment of retired Major General Adeyinka Famadewa as Special Adviser on Homeland Security will strengthen coordination and accelerate the implementation of critical security initiatives across the country.

The group urged the Federal Government to establish and operationalise Forest Guard units in all states, arguing that a nationwide framework would improve surveillance of forest corridors, enhance intelligence gathering and provide stronger support for military and law‑enforcement operations.

It further recommended that recruitment into the Forest Guard programme prioritize residents of host and forest communities, citing their familiarity with local terrain, movement patterns and hidden routes frequently exploited by criminal groups.

According to NCYP, a community‑driven approach would deepen cooperation with security agencies and improve Nigeria’s capacity to prevent and respond to threats emerging from forested areas.

The organisation reaffirmed its commitment to supporting efforts aimed at enhancing national security, protecting lives and property, and restoring lasting peace across the country.