Be fearless, decisive against terrorists, commander tells 925 Forest Guards

The Theatre Commander, Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), Maj.-Gen Ibikunle Ajose, has charged 925 newly trained Borno state Forest Guards to be fearless, decisive and professional in supporting ongoing 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 20 September, 2026.

A statement signed by the acting Military Information Officer, Headquarters Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI, Maiduguri, Mohammed Goni, Monday, said their training and knowledge of the local terrain would complement ongoing military operations and enhance the effectiveness of counterterrorism and counterinsurgency efforts.

He urged them 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 charged them to remain focused on the common threat posed by terrorists and criminals and demonstrate courage and decisiveness in the discharge of their duties.

The special guest of honour and the governor of Borno state, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, represented by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Professor Usman Tar, stated that the Forest Guards initiative was to provide structured auxiliary support to the Armed Forces and other security agencies.

He added that the 925 personnel, drawn from the 27 local government areas of Borno state, would be handed over to the Theatre Command for deployment based on operational requirements.

He noted that their knowledge of local terrain, languages and culture would enhance their effectiveness as force multipliers in support of ongoing operations.

Earlier, the Commandant, NETTS, Brigadier General Amadike Onaogu, stated that the two-week training was designed to build the confidence, resilience, discipline and adaptability required of the Forest Guards in their supporting role.

He added 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.