*As Delta Govt Commend NFSS Delta State Chapter
By Matthias Ogbagah
ASABA – The Commander of the Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS), Mr Jonathan Obokohwemu, has appealed to the Delta State Government for integration into the state’s security architecture and support in the provision of essential logistics to enhance its operations.
The appeal was made by the Delta State Commander of the NFSS, Mr Jonathan Obokohwemu, during a courtesy visit to the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr Kingsley Emu, in Asaba, the Delta State capital.
In his address, Commander Obokohwemu recounted the evolution of the NFSS from its early days as the Independent Hunters Association, through various transformations, to its current status. He explained that the organisation, though paramilitary, has continued to play a critical role in grassroots security, especially within the state’s forests and rural communities.
He noted that the NFSS has contributed significantly to the fight against crime in Delta State, citing several successful operations carried out by its officers. These include the arrest of armed robbers and suspected kidnappers, recovery of firearms such as a Beretta pistol and an AK-47 rifle, and the rescue of kidnapped victims in collaboration with the Nigerian Police.
Commander Obokohwemu disclosed that NFSS officers are trained in 13 out of the 15 police colleges in Nigeria and are well-equipped with the skills required for effective community-based security operations. However, he decried the challenges they face, including the lack of operational vehicles, insufficient ammunition, and inadequate welfare support for their officers.
“Your Excellency, it is clear that securing our forests and rural areas is crucial in curbing the spread of criminal activities such as banditry and kidnapping. Our officers face adversaries with more sophisticated weapons while they operate with traditional hunting rifles. We urgently need the support of the state government to bridge this gap,” he stated.
He therefore appealed to the state government for collaboration and inclusion in the broader state security framework, as well as the provision of operational vehicles, advanced equipment, stipends for officers, and other logistics that would enable the NFSS to function optimally.
According to him, “Our gallant officers are ready to combat all forms of crime and make the forests and ungoverned spaces safer, so that farmers can return to their farms without fear and investors can thrive in a peaceful environment.”
Commander Obokohwemu also called on other security agencies to recognise the NFSS as a key partner in the collective security effort across Delta State.
Responding, Dr Kingsley Emu commended the NFSS for their efforts and assured that their requests would be conveyed to the appropriate authorities for consideration.
He acknowledged the importance of community-level security and pledged the government’s continued commitment to improving the security landscape of Delta State.
