The All Farmers Association of Nigeria has said the Federal Government’s graduation and deployment of more than 7,000 forest guards could restore farmers’ confidence and encourage a return to farming activities during both the dry and rainy seasons, particularly in areas long affected by insecurity.
In a statement welcoming the move, the association said the initiative would help strengthen Nigeria’s internal security framework by preventing terrorists, bandits, kidnappers and other criminal groups from using forests and remote areas as safe havens. It noted that improved security remains central to protecting livelihoods and sustaining agricultural productivity across the country.
The farmers’ body said many producers had abandoned their farmlands in recent years due to repeated attacks and fear for their safety, disrupting food production and local agribusiness activities. According to the association, the presence of trained forest guards would improve access to farmlands and allow farmers to resume cultivation without constant fear.
The association described the forest guards initiative as a critical step towards reclaiming Nigeria’s forests from criminal elements whose activities have undermined rural economies and agricultural supply chains. It expressed confidence that the programme represents a coordinated effort between federal and state authorities to address insecurity in hard-to-reach areas where farming communities are most vulnerable.
More than 7,000 newly recruited forest guards recently completed a three-month training programme under the Presidential Forest Guards Initiative, with graduation ceremonies held across several frontline states. The deployment is expected to complement existing security efforts and provide a safer operating environment for farmers and small agribusinesses.
The association also called on state governments to work closely with the forest guards to ensure the success of the initiative, stressing that collaboration at all levels is essential to restoring peace in rural communities. It assured both farmers and authorities of its continued support, saying the programme could provide much-needed relief and renewed confidence for farmers while supporting food production and rural economic recovery nationwide.
