The Bauchi government has inaugurated 2,187 newly trained forest guards and vigilantes to enhance security, flush out criminals, protect forest resources, and promote environmental sustainability in the state.
The state deputy governor, Auwal Jatau, said this at the Passing-out-Parade of the forest guards, on Saturday in Bauchi.
He said the measure underscored the administration’s commitment to the protection and sustainable management of forest resources, environmental conservation, and the enhancement of security in communities.
Jatau described forests as invaluable assets that support agriculture, preserve biodiversity, and contribute significantly to the socio-economic development of the state.
He reminded the forest guards that the uniform they wear symbolises responsibility, discipline, integrity, and service.
The deputy governor cautioned the personnel against misconduct, abuse of office, collusion with criminal elements, and acts capable of undermining public trust, warning that erring personnel would be sanctioned.
Jatau said the forest guards had been authorised to begin their responsibilities in accordance with the laws and regulations governing their operations.
ACP Abdullahi Tambuwal, Commandant, Police Training School, Bauchi, lauded Gov. Bala Mohammed for his support to the two-week forest guards training exercise, and commitment to promote community-based policing in the state.
He said the personnel underwent rigorous training in Civilian Security Intelligence Gathering; Community Policing, Critical Asset Protection, Operational Synergy and Collaboration, Health and Safety Awareness, Emergency Response Skills, among others.
Tambuwal urged the state government to renovate the school’s hostels, provide a borehole to enhance water supply, construct a 500-seat lecture theatre, and provide patrol vehicles.
According to Tambuwal, the intervention will improve the training environment and enhance the capacity of security personnel in the state.