By SUMAILA OGBAJE

The Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS) has inaugurated a specialised Counter-Terrorism Unit to combat rural banditry and kidnapping.

Speaking at the inauguration on Saturday in Abuja, the Commander-General of the NFSS, Dr Joshua Osatimehin, emphasised the need for strong collaboration with conventional security agencies to enhance national security.

Osatimehin said the establishment of the unit is aimed at strengthening intelligence gathering and bridging gaps in community-based security, particularly in forested areas.

According to him, the NFSS has expanded its operations across the 36 states, the FCT, and all local government areas, providing grassroots intelligence to support national security efforts.

He urged personnel to work closely with the police, military, and civil defence, describing them as critical partners in safeguarding the country.

“In security operations, synergy is key. We must support and complement existing agencies whose roles are central to national stability,” he said.

Also speaking, the Commander, Counter-Terrorism Department, NFSS, Mr Innocent Solomon, described the inauguration as a major milestone in the organisation’s mandate to combat terrorism.

Solomon said the department was established to identify, disrupt and neutralise security threats, while protecting citizens and critical infrastructure.

He stressed that collaboration remained the cornerstone of effective counter-terrorism efforts.

“In the face of evolving threats, no single agency can succeed alone. It is only through collaboration, coordination and cooperation that we can effectively respond,” he said.

He added that the department would leverage intelligence sharing, modern technology and partnerships with local and international stakeholders to enhance operational effectiveness.

Solomon pledged to uphold professionalism, innovation and ethical standards in the discharge of duties.

Also, the Director of Operations, NFSS, Dr Muhammad Abdullahi, called for greater recognition and support for the service, noting that many personnel operate under challenging conditions.

Abdullahi said the NFSS had continued to provide critical intelligence to security agencies, contributing to efforts to curb criminality, especially in forest communities.

“Our responsibility is to gather credible information and pass it to relevant authorities for necessary action,” he said.

He described terrorism as a calculated attempt to disrupt societal and government activities, stressing the need for proactive measures to counter such threats.

Abdullahi also appealed to communities to support the service with timely information, while urging closer collaboration with divisional police officers and other security formations.

He noted that some operatives had made significant sacrifices in the line of duty, including injuries and loss of lives, underscoring the need for institutional support.

The inauguration was attended by representatives of the police, armed forces, and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, among other stakeholders.

The event had in attendance, representatives from the Nigeria Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) among others.(NAN)

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