Harmonization of NFSS and NFG: A Step Towards Enhanced Forest Security

Samuel Edward

The Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS) and the proposed National Forest Guard (NFG) are set to join forces to combat rural insecurity and enhance forest security in Nigeria. The NFSS, formerly known as the Nigerian Hunter and Forest Security Service (NHFSS), has been instrumental in maintaining peace and security in rural and forested regions, tackling challenges such as insurgency, banditry, and kidnapping.

The harmonization of NFSS and NFG aims to leverage the strengths of both organizations, building on the NFSS’s progress in curbing illegal activities in forests and contributing to national security. The proposed NFG will have over 130,000 armed forest guards deployed across Nigeria’s 1,129 forest reserves, focusing on jungle warfare, tracking, and counter-IED operations.

The harmonization is expected to yield several benefits, including enhanced security through improved coordination and intelligence sharing, increased community engagement in forest management and conservation, and economic benefits through the protection of natural resources and promotion of sustainable agriculture.

The NFSS has urged the Federal Government to recognize forest security as a crucial component of Nigeria’s overall security framework and provide legislative support to ensure the success of the harmonization effort.