Kwara strengthens security with new military campaign, forest guards

In a bold move to reinforce internal security, the Kwara State Government has launched a new military-backed campaign and unveiled a forest guard initiative to curb rising insecurity, particularly in rural and vulnerable areas of the state.

Speaking during a press briefing in Ilorin, the state capital, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq emphasized that the government is taking proactive steps to combat banditry, kidnapping, and illegal activities in remote regions.

“Security is not just the job of the federal government. We are stepping up with clear, coordinated action,” the governor stated.

🛡️ Forest Guards & Military Collaboration

The newly introduced forest guards will work closely with the military and local security networks to monitor and respond to suspicious activities in dense forest regions, which have become hideouts for criminal groups.

Key elements of the security upgrade include:

• Deployment of military personnel to identified hotspots

• Recruitment and training of community-based forest guards

• Acquisition of mobility and surveillance equipment

• Enhanced intelligence sharing across local governments

📍 Why This Matters

Recent reports have highlighted increasing cases of rural insecurity and forest-based criminal activities in parts of Kwara and neighboring states. The new initiative is aimed at:

• Protecting farmlands and rural dwellers

• Disrupting criminal camps and hideouts

• Rebuilding public trust in security efforts

“We’re not waiting for crises to escalate before acting. The safety of every Kwara citizen — in the city or forest — is our priority,” a government spokesperson added.

🗣️ Public Support & Vigilance Encouraged

The Kwara government also called on residents to:

• Cooperate with security personnel

• Report strange movements or gatherings

• Join community-based security awareness campaigns

📣 Final Note

With this strategic push, Kwara is positioning itself as a model for state-level security innovation. Officials say it’s only the beginning of a comprehensive security reform that will be expanded in phases.

“We are securing today to protect our tomorrow.”