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The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has lauded the Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS) for its critical role in combating criminal activities across Nigeria’s forests. He expressed his admiration for their commitment and urged them to remain steadfast in their mission to secure the country’s vast forest reserves.
The monarch made these remarks during the visit of the Commandant-General of NFSS, Dr. Joshua Osatimehin, and his delegation to the Ooni’s palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State, as disclosed in a statement issued on Friday.
During the high-level engagement, Oba Ogunwusi disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu had demonstrated a strong commitment to formally incorporating the NFSS into Nigeria’s security architecture. According to the Ooni, the President had recently spoken favourably about the efforts of the forest security operatives, commending their dedication and expressing his plans to strengthen their role within the national security framework.
“Just a few days ago, less than two weeks, I met with Mr. President,” the monarch revealed. “He spoke glowingly of the work you are doing and expressed deep appreciation for your efforts. President Tinubu is determined to integrate you fully into the federal security structure, and I commend him and the National Assembly for their support so far.”
While praising the NFSS for its initiatives, the traditional ruler also issued a note of caution. He advised members of the organisation to uphold integrity and avoid compromise as they assume greater responsibility for protecting Nigeria’s forests.
Oba Ogunwusi further pledged the support of traditional rulers and community leaders across the country, affirming that they would work hand-in-hand with the NFSS to ensure the safety and security of local forested areas.
In response, Dr. Joshua Osatimehin, the Commandant-General of NFSS, thanked the Ooni for his endorsement and assured him that the service remains resolute in its mission to rid the nation’s forests of criminals and threats. He noted that the NFSS currently has over 18,000 personnel operating in the southern region alone, although limited logistical capacity has hindered full deployment.
“We have more than 18,000 trained forest guards in the Southwest,” Osatimehin said. “What you are seeing now is just a fraction. Once the Federal Government formally integrates us and provides access to modern security equipment, I am confident that within three to six months, our operatives will significantly reduce, if not completely eliminate, criminal elements hiding in Nigeria’s forests.”
He emphasized that the NFSS is not in competition with existing security agencies but is rather committed to collaboration. He called on all NFSS officers nationwide to remain proactive, professional, and to work in synergy with relevant security bodies.
“We are not here to rival any other agency,” Osatimehin added. “Instead, we aim to strengthen national efforts by focusing on securing our forests and supporting existing structures.”
Also speaking at the event, the Deputy Commander-General (Intelligence), Dr. John Metchie, expressed appreciation to the Ooni for his support and recognition of the NFSS. He reassured the monarch that the service would not disappoint the trust placed in it.
Dr. Metchie also used the opportunity to encourage officers and men of the NFSS to remain courageous, committed, and disciplined in discharging their duties across the country’s forests.
“Our mission is clear,” he said. “We must protect the forest zones and ensure they do not become safe havens for criminal activities. We owe this to our communities and our nation.”