The Kano state command of the Nigerian Forest Security Service (NFSS) has declared its readiness to flush out bandits, kidnappers, cattle rustlers, and other criminal elements across the state.
Kano State Commander of NFSS, Abdullahi Al’ameen, made the appeal on Monday while briefing journalists shortly after addressing personnel drawn from all 44 local government areas.
The gathering was part of efforts to strengthen the service’s operations following recent security incidents recorded in parts of the state.
Al’ameen said the NFSS has a pool of experienced personnel capable of combating criminal activities, stressing that with proper backing, the service could help secure all borders and ensure the safety of residents.
“We have been hearing of kidnappings, assassinations and other criminalities from different parts of the country. Now that Kano State has recorded such, we at this service will not relent in assuring the security of lives and properties,” he said. “We have supported other states to tackle their security challenges. Now that the challenge has come to Kano, it is time for us to act and ensure the state is secured.”
However, Al’ameen raised concerns over what he described as a complete lack of institutional support. He revealed that personnel currently fund their own uniforms and operational kits, while the command has no official vehicles for field operations.“As you can see, we all pay for our uniforms and kits. Let me tell you, we don’t even have operational vehicles,we are renting vehicles for operations,” he lamented. “We are really seeking the support of the Kano State Government and security agencies.”
He clarified that the NFSS was not established to compete with existing security formations, but to complement them.“We want security agencies to know that we are not here to take over their activities we are here to complete them, to support them. We have sacrificed our lives to save people,” Al’ameen emphasized.
The commander also urged residents to remain vigilant and provide prompt, credible information on suspicious movements to security agencies.