By Abdul Lauya
In response to widespread illegal occupation of forests by bandits and terror groups for criminal activities, President Bola Tinubu has approved the creation of a National Forest Guards Unit.
The guards will operate in 1,129 forests across the country.
They are to be well trained and armed for their mission.
Their main task is to flush out terrorists and bandits.
The forests have long served as hideouts for criminal gangs.
Recruitment is a joint effort between federal and state governments.
Thousands of young Nigerians are expected to be hired.
The Office of the National Security Adviser will oversee implementation.
The Ministry of Environment has also been directed to take charge.
Tinubu said his administration would not cede any territory to criminals.
He vowed to reclaim all forests from terrorist control.
