In Cross River State, various groups are urging the government to significantly boost the number of forest guards and rangers. They argue that the region’s extensive forest zones need stronger security to combat illegal activities such as mining and other environmental risks.
This renewed push follows President Bola Tinubu’s recent approval to recruit 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State after a school abduction incident. Observers believe similar programs should be rolled out nationwide, especially in heavily forested states like Cross River.
Mr George Oben-Etche, Chairman of the Cross River State Forestry Commission, stated that the state government is already working to tap into the federal forest security scheme. He mentioned that about 300 rangers were hired after he took office, with plans to increase that number.
According to Oben-Etche, the presidential directive should be seen as a national security move, not limited to Oyo State alone, and Cross River intends to expand its personnel.
Commander Joseph Omini Ogburuwa of the Nigeria Hunters and Forest Security Services in Cross River welcomed the federal decision, calling it a positive step against insecurity in forest regions. He urged the government to officially involve his organization, noting their local expertise and capacity to address criminal activities.
“We have about 2,000 members in Cross River, and some states have up to 5,000. We can help fill security gaps in forests and contribute to national security,” Ogburuwa said.
Forest ranger Mr Efiok Emmanuel highlighted the understaffing problem, noting that only about 400 rangers patrol the state’s vast reserves despite growing challenges. He recalled that Governor Bassey Otu ordered the recruitment of 2,000 additional rangers in 2024, but the plan was never fully carried out. Similarly, proposals for local government-level recruitment were shelved.
Emmanuel stressed that new hiring would significantly improve security operations and conservation efforts across Cross River.