By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The Deputy Commander-General (DCG) of the Nigerian Hunter and Forest Security Service (NHFSS), Amb. Dr. Johnny Metchie, has called for the conversion of NHFSS into a National Security Service or Nigeria Forest Guard Service (NFGS) to secure ungoverned territories and promote sustainable economic growth.
According to a press release, DCG Metchie explained that this transformation would provide a robust solution to the issues of kidnapping, banditry, and other crimes carried out in forests, bushes, and ungoverned areas across Nigeria.
Metchie emphasized that beyond the human toll, the economic impact of such crimes is staggering, with each abduction causing significant financial losses and damaging Nigeria’s international reputation, thus deterring foreign investment. “Every time people are kidnapped and taken into the forests, Nigeria loses billions in revenue and foreign investment due to the adverse image created by kidnappings, banditry, and extremism,” Metchie stated.
He expressed concern over the unchecked rise in insecurity due to unpatrolled and ungoverned areas, which has forced many companies to exit Nigeria. He argued that now, more than ever, the establishment of a Forest Guard service is essential.
The DCG also commended the Federal Government’s efforts to enhance national security and its consideration of establishing new security agencies. Metchie referenced a recent statement by Dr. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, Commandant-General of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), during a public hearing on a bill proposing the creation of the Nigeria Mines Ranger Service in Abuja.
While Dr. Audi advocated for channeling resources into the NSCDC rather than establishing new agencies, Metchie criticized this view as “short-sighted” and “self-centered,” suggesting it fails to address Nigeria’s comprehensive security needs.
He recalled a pointed question from Senator Garba Musa Maidoki of Kebbi South, who publicly questioned whether the NSCDC had fulfilled its mandate in securing the nation. Metchie noted that the general response from the public at the hearing was a resounding “No.”
Metchie urged the NSCDC to heed Senator Maidoki’s advice, stating, “At this critical point in our country’s history, we must set aside personal interests and prioritize decisions that serve the nation.” He emphasized the need for additional personnel to bolster Nigeria’s security architecture, voicing concerns that he, like many Nigerians, feels unsafe even within his own community.
“Insecurity in Nigeria stems largely from vast ungoverned territories in forests, bushes, deserts, creeks, and other remote terrains that remain unprotected due to inadequate resources,” he said. “Our goal as Forest Guards is to bridge this gap and enhance national security in these vulnerable areas.”
Metchie concluded by stating that the Nigeria Forest Guard Service, which the NHFSS is evolving into, is a crucial missing element in Nigeria’s security framework. Without this addition, he warned, the nation’s security challenges will persist due to unchecked vulnerabilities in forests and ungoverned zones.
