The Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), Maj.-Gen Ibikunle Ajose, has urged 925 newly trained Borno state Forest Guards to be fearless and decisive in supporting efforts to counter terrorism and other criminal activities. He gave the charge at their graduation ceremony following a two-week in-theatre acclimatisation training at the North East Theatre Training School (NETTS), Buni Yadi, Yobe state, on September 20, 2026.
The Forest Guards, drawn from the 27 local government areas of Borno state, were trained to provide structured auxiliary support to the Armed Forces and other security agencies. According to the governor of Borno state, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, represented by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Professor Usman Tar, their knowledge of local terrain, languages, and culture would enhance their effectiveness as force multipliers in support of ongoing operations.
The training was designed to build the confidence, resilience, discipline, and adaptability required of the Forest Guards in their supporting role. Commandant, NETTS, Brigadier General Amadike Onaogu, stated that the training was not intended to transform them into soldiers but to equip them with relevant competencies to effectively complement ongoing security operations within their areas of responsibility.
Maj.-Gen Ajose commended the Borno state government for its sustained support to security efforts and appreciated the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for his continued guidance, support to Operation HADIN KAI, and the training programme. The Forest Guards were handed over to the Theatre Command for deployment based on operational requirements.
The Theatre Commander charged the Forest Guards to apply their newly acquired skills responsibly, remain disciplined, and respect law-abiding citizens, while warning against harassment of civilians and rivalry with other security agencies. He urged them to remain focused on the common threat posed by terrorists and criminals and demonstrate courage and decisiveness in the discharge of their duties.
A statement signed by the acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Maiduguri, Mohammed Goni, said their training and knowledge of the local terrain would complement ongoing military operations and enhance the effectiveness of counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency efforts.
The graduation ceremony marked a significant milestone in the efforts to bolster security in the region, with the Forest Guards expected to play a crucial role in supporting the Armed Forces and other security agencies in their fight against terrorism and other criminal activities.
Key points
- 925 Forest Guards graduate after two-week training
- Forest Guards to be deployed based on operational requirements
- Theatre Commander charges Forest Guards to be fearless and decisive against terrorists
