Insecurity: Ekiti rep urges governors to support Tinubu’s forest guard initiative

A member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Fatoba Olusola Steve, has called on state governors to throw their weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s newly approved Nigeria Forest Security Services, describing it as a timely intervention to tackle insecurity and boost food production.

Fatoba, who chairs the House Committee on Information, National Orientation, Ethics and Values, said the initiative – popularly dubbed the forest guard – was a bold step that would restore confidence in the agricultural sector, protect rural communities, and curb the activities of bandits and armed herders who have turned forests into hideouts.

In a statement issued yesterday in Ado-Ekiti, the lawmaker commended the President for “a quick and pragmatic response” to the country’s security challenges, stressing that the signing of the forest security framework reflected Tinubu’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

“What is required now is maximum support from state governments to ensure the full implementation of this policy across the country,” he said. “Governors must work hand-in-hand with the federal government to stamp out illegal occupation of our forests and create safe spaces for farmers to return to their fields.”

He urged state governments to encourage local communities to participate in the programme, noting that such grassroots involvement would be vital for its success.

Fatoba, who represents Ekiti Central Constituency II, expressed optimism that Nigerians, particularly farmers in rural areas, would soon heave a sigh of relief as the policy takes effect.

“With this initiative, the era of fear in our forests will give way to renewed agricultural productivity and food security,” he assured.