FIC Report (Edo State) – The Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) has commended the Edo State Government for the ongoing training of 500 forest guards, describing the initiative as a significant step towards strengthening security and protecting lives and property across the state.
The Commendation was given during a Courtesy visit by an Evaluation team from ONSA, led by the Director of Defence Affairs, Major General Hilary Mabeokwu, to Governor Monday Okpebholo at the Government House in Benin City on Thursday 16th July, 2026.
Mabeokwu explained that the delegation was in Edo State to evaluate the training programme at the Police Training School, Ogida Barracks, where the Forest Guards are currently undergoing intensive Instruction.
According to him, the Assessment focused on the training Environment, Camp Security, Accommodation, Feeding, Medical Services, Instructors’ welfare, and adherence to the training schedule approved by the National Security Adviser.
He expressed satisfaction with the progress of the exercise, noting that the programme had met the required standards.
The ONSA official also praised the trainees’ proficiency in weapon handling, revealing that between 65 and 70 per cent of the training programme had been successfully completed.
He said the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s broader security strategy to combat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities by deploying trained forest guards to secure forests and other ungoverned spaces often exploited by criminal elements.
Mabeokwu further lauded Governor Okpebholo’s commitment to enhancing security, noting that the administration’s efforts were contributing to peace, safety and socio-economic development in Edo State.
Also speaking, the Edo State Commissioner for Public Safety and Security, Mr. Festus Ebea, said the evaluation team expressed satisfaction with both the quality of the training and the facilities provided for the exercise.
In his response, Governor Okpebholo appreciated President Bola Tinubu and the National Security Adviser for approving the recruitment and training of the 500 forest guards for the state.
The Governor said the initiative would boost efforts to secure Edo’s forests, which have long served as hideouts for criminal groups, reaffirming his administration’s resolve to safeguard residents and their property.
He assured that the State Government would continue to implement measures aimed at making Edo a safer environment for all.
By Egwaoje Amarachi Linda
ACI&PRO, FIC Benin
July 16th, 2026
