NEDC Trains 1,000 Forest Guards in Yobe, Provides Relief Supplies
Iliyasu Abdullahi Bah
The North East Development Commission (NEDC) has conducted training for 1,000 forest guards in Yobe State to enhance their ability to safeguard farmers from terrorist threats in farmlands and forests, especially in the Sambisa and Sasawa regions. Additionally, the Commission distributed food supplies and waterproof mats to assist the guards during their duties.
During the training launch in Damaturu, the NEDC’s Managing Director, represented by the State Coordinator, Prof Ali Ibrahim Abbas, stated that the program is designed to strengthen security and curb terrorist operations in agricultural and forested areas.
Under the initiative, the guards received 100 cartons of pasta, 80 gallons of cooking oil, and 1,000 waterproof mats to support their operational needs. Abbas mentioned that the training first covered five local government areas near the two forests, with plans to expand it to the remaining 12 councils in the state. He added that the NEDC plans to train additional guards to improve security and protect farmlands and forests from Boko Haram and other criminal activities.
Brigadier General Abdulsalam Dahiru (rtd), Security Adviser to Governor Mai Mala Buni, applauded the Commission for its proactive measures in ensuring safety. He emphasized the joint efforts of federal and state governments in deploying forest guards to secure the Sambisa and Sasawa forests, thereby preventing attacks on farmers and herders.
Dahiru also recognized the NEDC as the first federal agency to assist Yobe in counterterrorism efforts, praising its contributions to education, infrastructure, and humanitarian aid in the state.