NCYP Applauds Tinubu’s Approval of 1,000 Forest Guards for Oyo, Warns Against Delays in Deployment

The Northern Christian Youth Professionals (NCYP) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the deployment of 1,000 Forest Guards to Oyo State, describing the move as a major boost to internal security and community-based protection efforts.

In a statement issued on Monday by its Chairman, Isaac Abrak, the group praised the decision but cautioned the Federal Government against delays in implementing the initiative.
According to NCYP, the approval represents a significant step toward strengthening security, particularly in forested areas where criminal activities such as kidnapping and banditry have become prevalent.
The group noted that the decision aligns with its earlier call on May 25, 2026, for the expansion of the Forest Guards programme beyond pilot states. However, it cited Plateau State as an example of how delays can undermine such interventions.
Abrak stated that security measures must move beyond announcements to actual implementation through prompt recruitment, training, and deployment of personnel.
“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,” he said.
NCYP recalled that Plateau State received approval for 1,000 Forest Guards in January following a series of deadly attacks in rural communities. According to the group, the unit has yet to become operational, leaving significant security gaps in affected areas.
Why Forest Guards Are Important
The organisation said the President’s approval demonstrates the Federal Government’s recognition of the growing security threats within forest regions and the need for enhanced surveillance and intelligence gathering.
NCYP also applauded ongoing efforts aimed at securing the release of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oyo State.
The group expressed confidence that the appointment of retired Major General Adeyinka Famadewa as Special Adviser on Homeland Security would improve coordination and accelerate security responses.
NCYP’s Key Recommendations
The group outlined three major recommendations to ensure the success of the initiative:
Immediate Operationalisation: The recruitment, training, and deployment of the approved Forest Guards should begin without delay.
Nationwide Expansion: Forest Guard units should be established across all 36 states to secure forest corridors frequently exploited by criminal groups.
Community-Based Recruitment: Priority should be given to residents of host and forest communities who possess valuable knowledge of local terrain, routes, and movement patterns often used by kidnappers.
According to NCYP, involving local residents would strengthen cooperation between communities and security agencies while enhancing Nigeria’s ability to prevent and respond to threats originating from forested areas.
The group concluded that a community-driven security approach remains essential to improving national security and protecting vulnerable communities across the country.