The Arewa Think Tank (ATT) has expressed strong commendation for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu following his approval to recruit 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State and the deployment of a specialized security team to rescue abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area. The group described these actions as a clear demonstration of leadership and unwavering commitment to national security.
Swift Response Boosts Public Confidence
In a statement issued by its Convener, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, the ATT noted that the President's rapid response has significantly reinforced public confidence in the Federal Government's resolve to combat insecurity nationwide. Yakubu emphasized that the approval of forest guards represents a timely and strategic intervention aimed at addressing the escalating security threats in rural communities and forested regions often exploited by criminal elements.
“The approval of 1,000 forest guards by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a timely and strategic response to the growing security concerns in many parts of the country. It shows that the President is listening to Nigerians and taking concrete steps to protect lives and property,” he said.
Strengthening Intelligence and Surveillance
Yakubu further highlighted that this initiative would enhance intelligence gathering and surveillance in forests that have become notorious hideouts for kidnappers and bandits. He added that the measure would effectively deny criminals safe havens, thereby reducing their operational capacity.
The ATT also lauded the deployment of a specialized rescue team to secure the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers, describing it as a reassuring sign of government responsiveness. “Nothing is more reassuring than having a President who responds swiftly when lives are threatened. The deployment of a specialized rescue team shows that this administration prioritizes the safety of every Nigerian child and teacher,” Yakubu stated.
Proactive Security Measures
Furthermore, the group praised the proposed establishment of a military base in affected communities, characterizing it as a proactive and people-centered security measure. According to Yakubu, the presence of top security officials, including the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, the National Security Adviser, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Minister of Defence, underscores the seriousness of the Federal Government's response.
Yakubu added that the forest guard initiative aligns with long-standing calls by security experts for community-based policing structures to complement conventional security agencies. He called on state governments and community leaders to collaborate with the Federal Government to ensure the success of the programme, stressing that security requires collective responsibility.
“Security is a collective responsibility. All stakeholders must work together to ensure the success of this initiative. The fight against insecurity requires unity, vigilance, and sustained commitment,” he said.
Call for Unity and Vigilance
The ATT urged Nigerians to continue supporting ongoing security reforms, expressing optimism that the administration's efforts would yield positive results in restoring peace and stability. Yakubu also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant against attempts to politicize insecurity, warning that criminal incidents should not be exploited for political gain ahead of the 2027 general elections. He maintained that while security agencies have recorded gains against criminal groups, there is a need to guard against narratives that could undermine public confidence in national institutions.
