The Enugu State Forest Guard Command has reaffirmed its commitment to securing forests and rural communities across the state. The command made the pledge after completing a week-long training programme focused on professionalism, operational readiness and cooperation among security agencies.
In a statement issued in Enugu on Saturday, National Forest Guard Commander, Enugu Command, Dr Akinbayo Olasoji, said the training ended on October 23, 2026.
The programme equipped personnel with improved operational skills, including techniques for handling assorted rifles. It also covered intelligence gathering, leadership, human rights, emergency coordination and professional report writing.
Olasoji said the command wanted to keep forests safe for farmers, residents and travellers. He added that the initiative would help protect wildlife, natural resources and critical infrastructure from criminal activities.
The development adds to ongoing security efforts across Enugu State. Related coverage includes Enugu Security Agencies’ Assurance of a Peaceful Local Government Election.
Nigerian Army Trains Forest Guard Personnel
A major highlight of the programme was a lecture on joint military guard operations. Lieutenant Colonel Solomon Kure Shekarau of the Nigerian Army’s 82 Division Garrison, Enugu, delivered the session.
He emphasised command coordination, clearly defined responsibilities and cooperation among security agencies during forest deployments.
The programme also featured training by senior police officers, including ACP Suraju Kehinde Oyewole and ACP Oliver Odimega.
They addressed intelligence gathering, incident documentation, crime-scene preservation and first-response procedures. They also explained how personnel should refer suspected criminal cases to the police.
These skills are intended to improve coordination and help personnel handle incidents professionally. For related reporting on community safety, see CSDA’s Sensitisation Exercise Across Six Enugu Communities.
NSCDC Highlights Protection of Critical Assets
Nwatu Emmanuel Amechi of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps also trained participants on protecting critical national assets.
His presentation focused on vigilance, incident-scene safety and emergency coordination. These areas formed part of the command’s wider effort to strengthen personnel readiness.
The training also emphasised accountability and responsible conduct during security operations. Organisers stressed that personnel must exercise emotional discipline and engage respectfully with members of the public.
The command said effective forest security requires professionalism and public trust. Related developments include Enugu Government’s Efforts to Sustain Development Gains.
Forest Guard Legal Officer Stresses Human Rights
The command’s Legal Officer, Barrister Amaka Mandy, addressed legal compliance during the training.
She reinforced the need for personnel to operate within the provisions of the Enugu State Forest Guard Law, 2020. She also stressed respect for the fundamental rights of citizens.
The programme highlighted the importance of lawful conduct alongside operational effectiveness. Personnel were encouraged to remain accountable and observe proper procedures while carrying out their duties.
Olasoji said sustainable forest security would require continued training and cooperation among government institutions, security agencies, traditional institutions, community leaders and residents.
His position reflects the importance of collaboration in protecting communities and public assets. For another report on state development priorities, read NACCIMA’s Praise for Enugu’s Security and Economic Ambition.
Enugu Forest Guard Plans Another Training in November
Olasoji disclosed that the command planned another week-long training programme for November 2026.
He also announced a proposed 30-day improvement framework to strengthen personnel performance, reporting standards and accountability.
The commander said the command would work to apply the knowledge gained during training to field operations. He reaffirmed its commitment to keeping forests and surrounding communities secure and accessible for legitimate economic and social activities.
The planned exercise will build on the recently completed programme. However, the command has not provided further details about the next training schedule.
Related coverage on investment and community development includes RMAFC’s Search for Chinese Investment.
Olasoji Commends Governor Peter Mbah
The forest guard commander commended Governor Peter Mbah for supporting the command’s operations.
He praised the governor’s encouragement and commitment to strengthening the Forest Guard’s operational capacity in Enugu State.
Olasoji said the support had motivated personnel to improve forest security and protect farmers, travellers and rural residents from security threats.
The command also reiterated its determination to safeguard natural resources and critical infrastructure. It said sustained cooperation with other security agencies and local communities would remain central to its work.
Other reports on state development include Peter Mbah’s Reported 10,000 Achievements, Igbo-Eze South Chairman’s Praise for Mbah’s Grassroots Development and the South-East Agro-Development Programme Launched in Enugu.
The command said it would continue to strengthen personnel skills and improve operational accountability. It also called for sustained cooperation among security agencies, community leaders and residents to maintain safer forests across Enugu State.
