The Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS), says it is committed to safeguarding and protecting every forest and bushes in the country from all forms of criminality including kidnapping and insurgency.
Mr Joshua Osatimehin, the Commandant-General of NFSS, said this on Tuesday during his tour of Southeast Command and sensitisation of the officers in Enugu.
He said the exercise was a show of force put up by the service to register their resolve in helping to stamp out insecurity and secure the local communities.
Osatimehin commended the present administration in Enugu State for well-articulated strategies and plans in combating crime and criminality in the state
The commandant expressed the need for the forest security service to be incorporated into the state’s security architecture.
He said: “We believe that no development can happen if there is no peaceful environment.
“Gov. Peter Mbah has done well and we want Nigeria Forest Security Service to be part of this success story.
“We appeal to him to co-opt and incorporate our members into the state internal security for a crime free environment.
Speaking earlier, the Enugu State Commander, NFSS, Anslem Onyibor, expressed delight over the turn out of the officers from the southeast zone.
He expressed the willingness of the service to synergise with other security agencies in securing the local communities and the forests.
“These personnel are from the five South Eastern states and we are here for show of force and to strengthen our collaboration with other security agencies to curb forest crimes.
“The governor of Enugu State is a peace loving governor and security sensitive governor and we have seen all his efforts in strengthening security apparatus in the state.
“He has been giving us support by creating enabling environment for our men to operate,” he said.
Speaking, the Traditional Ruler of Isiukwu Achi Kingdom, HRH, Chuks Nduniechie, praised the Service, saying it was a welcomed development as their formation and incorporation was timely.
Also, the Commissioner of Police, Enugu Command, Mr Mamman Giwa, represented by Assistant Commissioner of Police, Mr Oliver Odimega, urged the officers not to relent in spite of the challenges they may encounter. (NAN)
