The Edo State Government has announced plans to recruit 1,000 forest guards as part of efforts to strengthen security across forests, farmlands, and rural communities threatened by kidnappers and bandits.

Commissioner for Public Security and Safety, Festus Ebea, disclosed that 500 forest guards have already been recruited, while the state is preparing to engage an additional 500 personnel following a directive from the Office of the National Security Adviser.

According to the commissioner, the guards will be strategically deployed across forests and border communities, with special attention given to areas bordering Kogi, Ondo, and Delta states, as well as security-sensitive locations in Akoko-Edo, Etsako East, and Etsako West.

The government said operational bases for the forest guards would be located within forest areas to enhance surveillance, intelligence gathering, and rapid response to security threats. Authorities believe the move will help curb criminal activities, protect agricultural communities, and restore confidence among residents in vulnerable areas.

The announcement comes amid growing efforts by state and federal authorities to improve forest security nationwide as Nigeria continues to battle kidnapping, banditry, and other forms of rural insecurity. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.