The Ooni of Ife, Arole Oduduwa, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, Ojaja II, has revealed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to fully integrate hunters into Nigeria’s national security architecture, with a focus on securing the country’s vast forest reserves.
Ooni Ogunwusi made this known while hosting the Commandant General of the Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS), Mr. Joshua Osatimehin, at his palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State.
The visit included the NFSS Osun State Commander, Nureni Hammed, as well as commanders and hunters from the remaining five South West states.
Speaking on the development, the Ooni expressed confidence in the leadership and evolution of the NFSS, which emerged from a grassroots hunters' initiative before receiving Senate backing through a legislative bill.
"I want to thank the leadership of this country, particularly President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the National Assembly, for their foresight and dedication to the nation’s security," the monarch stated.
“Less than two weeks ago, I met with Mr. President to discuss the security challenges in our forests. He expressed a strong commitment to incorporate forest guards into the Federal Government's security framework.”
Highlighting the importance of community collaboration in ensuring safety across rural and forested areas, the Ooni emphasized the role of traditional rulers and political leaders in supporting the initiative.
“He (Tinubu) has a bright plan for our country, especially in terms of security, and this calls for the cooperation of every citizen. As I speak, he is currently in Benue State assessing the situation and exploring solutions to strengthen our national security,” he added.
Oba Ogunwusi further urged members of the NFSS not to compromise their integrity when entrusted with broader security responsibilities, pledging the support of traditional institutions in their mission to protect the forests.
In his remarks, NFSS Commandant General Joshua Osatimehin acknowledged the consistent support the group has enjoyed from the Ooni since its formation in 2016.
He stated that the visit aimed to galvanize the backing of royal fathers across the country in persuading the Federal Government to formalize the NFSS as the core of the proposed National Forest Security Guards.
Osatimehin commended governors Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos and Seyi Makinde of Oyo for already incorporating NFSS operatives into their local security strategies. He also noted that Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Mohammed, has commenced collaboration with the group to enhance rural security.
“With operatives across all 774 local government areas of the country, we are confident that, with proper governmental support, the NFSS can significantly curb criminal activities and secure Nigeria’s forests,” Osatimehin said.
The visit underscores a growing recognition of community-based security models as a critical component in addressing Nigeria’s complex security challenges, particularly in rural and forested areas prone to banditry, illegal mining, and insurgent infiltration.