By Darlington OnedibeÂ
Governor Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed of Bauchi State has urged newly inducted Forest Guards to uphold the highest standards of professionalism and strictly respect human rights while discharging their duties across the state.
​Speaking at the passing-out parade of the newly trained personnel, the Governor emphasized that their primary mandate is to protect the state’s forest reserves and natural resources, but this must never come at the expense of citizens’ fundamental rights.
Governor Mohammed stressed that the success of their security journey depends heavily on discipline, integrity, and adherence to established rules of engagement. He warned against high-handedness, reminding the graduands that protecting the environment goes hand-in-hand with safeguarding the communities living within and around those areas.
The induction of the new guards is part of the state government’s proactive measures to combat deforestation, illegal logging, and the encroachment of criminal elements into the state’s forest reserves. ​The Governor reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to securing the lives and property of Bauchi residents.
He noted that the revitalization of the Forest Guards will bolster the efforts of mainstream security agencies in tackling rural banditry and environmental degradation. ​
While congratulating the graduands on completing their rigorous training, Governor Mohammed assured them of the state government’s continued support through the provision of necessary logistics, welfare, and equipment to ensure their operations are smooth and effective.
