National Security Adviser’s Team Applauds Governor Okpebholo’s Efforts to Strengthen Forest Security
The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has commended the Edo State Government for its ongoing training of 500 Forest Guards, describing the initiative as a major step towards strengthening security and protecting forests from criminal activities.
The commendation came during an assessment visit by an ONSA evaluation team led by Maj.-Gen. Hilary Mabeokwu to the Police Training School, Ogida Barracks, Benin City, where the recruits are currently undergoing intensive training.
The team inspected accommodation, feeding, medical services, security arrangements, instructors’ welfare and other facilities provided for the trainees. Members of the delegation also observed practical training sessions and expressed satisfaction with the quality of the programme, noting that the exercise has reached about 70 per cent completion.
According to the assessment team, the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s broader security strategy of deploying trained personnel to forests and remote areas to combat kidnapping, banditry, terrorism and other criminal activities.
Edo State Commissioner for Public Safety and Security, Mr. Eboa Odianosen, said the evaluation team was impressed with the standard of training and facilities provided for the recruits.
Governor Monday Okpebholo appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Office of the National Security Adviser for supporting the initiative, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property across Edo State.
The Governor maintained that improving security remains a top priority of his administration, adding that the Forest Guards initiative will enhance surveillance and strengthen efforts to tackle criminal activities within forested communities.
