Okpebholo asks newly trained forest guards to secure Edo forests

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Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, has charged 497 newly trained forest guards to secure ungoverned forest areas and strengthen the state’s security architecture.

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The governor gave the charge during the passing-out parade and induction ceremony for the recruits at the Police Training School, Ogida Barracks, Benin City, on Monday.

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Represented by his Chief of Staff, Musa Yakubu, Okpebholo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving security and ensuring residents live in a peaceful and safe environment.

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He congratulated the recruits on completing the training, urging them to uphold discipline, professionalism and integrity as they begin active duty across forest communities in the state.

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He described the Forest Guard initiative as a key part of his administration’s security strategy to reclaim forests from criminal groups, curb illegal activities and improve public safety.

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“The training you have undergone is only the beginning of your responsibility. As you step into active service, remember that you are ambassadors of Edo State.

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“The people expect courage, discipline and dedication from you. Your duty is to protect our forests, support law enforcement agencies and contribute to the peace and security of our dear state,” he said.

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Okpebholo also urged the guards to remain committed to excellence, assuring them that dedication and professionalism would be recognised and rewarded.

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The National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, represented by Commissioner of Police Aniefiok Akpan, congratulated the graduates and said they would be deployed immediately across the state’s 18 local government areas, with particular attention to ungoverned forest areas.

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