The Coordinator of the Public Enlightenment Movement Project, Nuhu Abdullahi, has said that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the introduction of forest guards in Northern Nigeria as part of efforts to protect communities and curb criminal activities in the region.
Abdullahi disclosed this on Sunday during the Phase 3 presentation of the Public Enlightenment Movement Project, where a video documentary highlighting projects of the Tinubu administration was screened to the public.
According to him, the forest guards initiative is designed to complement the work of existing security agencies by improving surveillance and enabling quicker response to security threats, particularly in forested areas.
“In the video documentary we presented, it was noted that forests have often served as hideouts for bandits. With the deployment of forest guards, these areas are now being protected so criminals will no longer have safe places to operate,” Abdullahi said.
He highlighted other projects being supported by the President, including the upgrade of the Federal Medical Centre in Kumo, Gombe State, which he said is aimed at improving access to healthcare for residents of the North-East.
He further drew attention to several federal road projects across the North, including the Bauchi–Gombe road, the Nasarawa–Abuja route, the Gashua–Potiskum road, and the Gembu corridor linking Nigeria to the Cameroon border.
Abdullahi said the road projects are expected to ease movement, improve trade, and reconnect communities affected by insecurity.
On water supply, he said the Dutse water project in Jigawa State is part of the Phase 3 focus aimed at improving access to clean water and reducing daily hardship for residents.
He urged residents of Northern Nigeria to recognise ongoing projects while continuing to demand further development.
“We should appreciate the efforts being made, but that does not mean we should stop asking for more development,” Abdullahi said.
He added that unity, responsible engagement, and public support remain important for sustaining stability and growth across the region.