Governor Bala Mohammed Hails NFSS Chief for Pushing for Safer Communities
The Commander-General of the Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS), Joshua Osatimehin, has showered praise on Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State for approving the recruitment of 2,000 new forest security operatives to boost security in the state.
Speaking in Abuja after a field visit to Bauchi, Osatimehin said the move has greatly improved the operational strength of the NFSS and has become a model for other Northern states.
“Governor Bala has been very supportive. Just a few years back, he allocated almost ₦150 million for arms and ammunition to empower our service,” he revealed.
Bauchi Now One of the Most Peaceful States in Northern Nigeria
Osatimehin didn’t hold back in describing the impact of the governor’s support.
“Crime and criminality in Bauchi have dropped to near zero. Today, Bauchi is one of the most peaceful states in Northern Nigeria,” he said.
He credited this peace to Governor Bala’s investments in modern security infrastructure, consistent funding, and partnership with security agencies, especially in rural and forest-prone areas where bandits often operate.
N5 Million Insurance, Salaries, Vehicles, and More
The NFSS leadership revealed several measures taken by the Bauchi State Government to support security operatives:
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Monthly salaries paid to over 800 operatives
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N5 million insurance package for families of operatives killed in action
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Provision of vehicles and motorcycles for forest patrols
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Operational allowances to enhance morale and effectiveness
“The government didn’t just recruit; it made sure our men are protected and motivated,” said Umar Aliu, Assistant Commander-General (Operations).
Fulani Shouldn’t Be Stereotyped | Metchie Warns
John Metchie, Deputy Commander-General (Intelligence), also addressed a major concern: ethnic profiling.
“Let’s stop generalizing the Fulani as violent. Many of the issues come from foreign herders who sneak in through our porous borders,” he said.
He urged Nigerians to focus on real security solutions rather than blaming entire communities.
Other Northern States Should Learn from Bauchi
Osatimehin didn’t stop at praising Governor Bala. He urged other Northern governors, especially those in the Northeast, Northwest, and North Central regions, to partner with NFSS in their states.
“They should incorporate our command structures into their local security strategies. What Bauchi has done can be replicated across the North,” he added.
In brief!
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Governor Bala Mohammed has approved the recruitment of 2,000 forest security operatives in Bauchi.
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NFSS leaders praised the state for its commitment to reducing crime and supporting security personnel.
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The state offers insurance, salaries, vehicles, and operational funding to support forest patrols.
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Bauchi is now one of the safest states in Northern Nigeria.
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Other governors are being encouraged to follow Bauchi’s model to tackle insecurity across the region.
