Adamawa State Governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, has issued a stern warning to a fresh batch of forest guards, advising them against using their authority to intimidate or harass law-abiding citizens. The governor emphasized the need for respectful engagement with host communities.
Governor's Charge at Graduation Ceremony
The governor delivered this charge during the graduation ceremony of 987 newly trained forest guards held at the General Murtala Mohammed College (GMMC) in Yola on 28 December 2025. Governor Fintiri was represented at the event by his deputy, Professor Kaletapwa George Farauta.
He advised the graduands to view themselves as privileged citizens entrusted with the critical duty of serving their communities and the nation. Fintiri stressed that professionalism, discipline, and strict adherence to the rule of law must be the cornerstone of their conduct while discharging their responsibilities.
Strategic Blend of Security and Environment
Professor Farauta commended the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) for coordinating the forest guard initiative and providing oversight for its implementation. She also called on residents of communities where the guards will be deployed to offer their full support and cooperation to ensure the programme's success.
The governor reaffirmed the Adamawa State Government's commitment to supporting the initiative, noting its alignment with broader efforts to enhance security and safeguard the environment. "On my part, I wish to assure you of the continuous support of the Adamawa State Government for this initiative," he stated, while praying for sustained peace and security in the state and Nigeria at large.
NSA Ribadu Outlines Programme Objectives
Earlier, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, described the forest guard initiative as a strategic blend of environmental protection and national security objectives. Represented by Colonel E. E. Eswagu, Ribadu stated that securing forests is critical to reclaiming territory and protecting citizens and their future.
He reiterated his office's determination to ensure the programme's success and assured President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of the NSA's commitment to delivering tangible security, environmental, and socio-economic benefits in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.
To boost morale and operational readiness, the NSA's office announced the immediate payment of salaries and allowances, as well as the swift deployment of the graduating guards.
This recruitment drive is a direct follow-up to the nationwide security emergency declared by President Tinubu, who directed the military and police to recruit additional personnel to strengthen security across the country.
