Edo State Governor Monday Okpebholo has charged 497 newly trained forest guards to secure ungoverned forest areas and strengthen the state’s security architecture.

The guards were inducted on Monday during a passing-out parade and ceremony held at the Police Training School, Ogida Barracks, Benin City.

Represented by his Chief of Staff, Musa Yakubu, the governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving security and ensuring that residents live in a peaceful and safe environment.

Congratulating the recruits on completing the rigorous training programme, Okpebholo urged them to uphold discipline, professionalism and integrity as they begin active duty across forest communities in the state.

He described the Forest Guard initiative as a key component of his administration’s security strategy to reclaim forests from criminal groups, curb illegal activities and improve public safety.

“The training you have undergone is only the beginning of your responsibility. As you step into active service, remember that you are ambassadors of Edo State. The people expect courage, discipline and dedication from you. Your duty is to protect our forests, support law enforcement agencies and contribute to the peace and security of our dear state,” the governor said.

Okpebholo also encouraged the graduates to remain committed to excellence, assuring them that dedication and professionalism would be recognised and rewarded.

Also speaking at the event, the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, represented by Commissioner of Police Aniefiok Akpan, congratulated the graduates.

He said they would be deployed immediately across the 18 local government areas, with particular attention to ungoverned forest areas.

The induction is part of ongoing efforts by the federal and Edo State Governments to enhance community security and tackle crime in forest reserves. (Channels TV)

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