The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 8 Division of the Nigerian Army and Commander, Sector 2 Joint Task Force (North West) Operation FANSAN YAMMA, Major General Bemgba Paul Koughna, has operationalised the deployment of forest guards in Arewa Local Government Area of Kebbi State and donated logistics items to support their activities.
The event was confirmed in a statement issued on March 4, 2026, by Lieutenant Colonel Olaniyi Osoba, Acting Deputy Director, Army Public Relations, 8 Division, Nigerian Army/Sector 2 Operation FANSAN YAMMA.
The operationalisation ceremony was held at the Headquarters, Kangiwa, in Arewa Local Government Area, where 170 forest guards were formally inaugurated. The GOC stated that the forest guards would operate under the control of the Nigerian Army.
As part of the support package, the Army donated 10 brand-new motorcycles, 170 sleeping kits and essential food supplies to enhance the mobility, welfare and operational effectiveness of the guards in combating terrorism, banditry and other criminal activities across Kebbi State and the wider North-West region.
Major General Koughna said the items were provided to strengthen the guards’ capacity for rapid response, sustained field operations and improved morale. He explained that the motorcycles would boost patrol coverage and response time, while the sleeping kits and food supplies would improve the welfare of personnel deployed to remote areas.
The GOC charged the newly inaugurated guards to remain disciplined, focused and committed to their duties, stressing that success against terrorism and banditry requires teamwork, synergy and sustained dedication. He also conveyed the goodwill of the Chief of Army Staff and cautioned the guards against the misuse of their weapons, particularly against law-abiding citizens.
Representing Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State, the Commissioner for Home Affairs and Internal Security, Haliru Aliyu Wasabu, commended the Nigerian Army for what he described as a timely intervention and strong collaboration with the state government. He said the donation underscores the Army’s commitment to restoring peace and security and reaffirmed the state government’s readiness to continue working closely with security agencies to decisively curb criminal activities.
The inauguration and donation highlight ongoing efforts by the Nigerian Army and the Kebbi State Government to strengthen community-based security structures and consolidate gains in the fight against insurgency and banditry in the North-West region.
