Commander-General of Nigeria Forest Security Service, NFSS, Dr Joshua Osatimehin has hailed the Bauchi State governor, Bala Mohammed for the recruitment of 2,000 operatives.
Osatimehin gave the commendation while speaking with newsmen yesterday in Abuja, following his operational visit to the state recently.
He said the activities of forest security operatives in Bauchi had been enhanced through the immense support by Governor Mohammed.
According to him, a few years ago, the governor dished out almost N150 million to purchase arms and ammunition to support the organisation.
“I believe that crime and criminality in Bauchi State has reduced to almost zero level.
“Today, it remains one of the most peaceful states in Northern Nigeria.
“It is evidence of his contribution and commitment to internal security and by extension, national security.
“He has given us modern security infrastructure to enable us tackle crime and criminality,” he said.
Osatimehi appealed to other northern governors to emulate Bauchi, so as to be able to address the prevailing security challenges in the North East, North West and North Central.
He urged them to work with NFSS in their various states and incorporate them into the state security architecture, to be able to effectively tackle crimes and criminality.
On his part, the Deputy Commander-General (Intelligence), Dr John Metchie commended forest security operatives in Bauchi for their gallantry in combating criminality.
Metchie urged Nigerians to stop the stereotype against Fulani as being violent, adding that foreign herdsmen found their way into the country as a result of porous borders.
In his remarks, the Assistant Commander-General of NFSS (Operation), Umar Aliu said government has is supporting the service with the payment of monthly salaries of over 800 operatives.
Aliu said the state government also has insurance policy for the operatives in the event of fatality during operations, adding that it gives N5 million to the family of any operative killed in operation.
He said the governor had given approval for the recruitment of fresh 2,000 operatives, as well as vehicles, motorcycles and allowances to enhance their operation. (NAN)
