ABUJA, NIGERIA — In a bold and decisive move to tackle the escalating menace of illegal logging, deforestation, and other criminal activities threatening Nigeria’s forest reserves, the Federal Government has launched the National Forest Guard Initiative. This new program aims to safeguard the nation’s forest resources and promote sustainable environmental management.
The initiative comes in response to growing concerns over the rapid depletion of forest cover, which has serious implications for biodiversity, climate change, and the livelihoods of rural communities dependent on forest resources. Under the scheme, specially trained forest guards will be deployed to patrol vulnerable forest zones, deter illegal activities, and work closely with local communities to foster conservation efforts.
Officials from the Ministry of Environment highlighted that the National Forest Guard Initiative will combine modern surveillance technologies with grassroots engagement, ensuring effective monitoring and rapid response to environmental crimes. The program also includes partnerships with security agencies and community stakeholders to bolster enforcement and awareness.
Experts have praised the initiative as a necessary step toward reversing years of environmental degradation and reinforcing Nigeria’s commitment to global environmental goals.
As the country embarks on this renewed drive, the government urges citizens and stakeholders to collaborate in protecting the nation’s natural heritage for future generations.
