The Bauchi State Government has approved the recruitment of 2,000 additional operatives for the Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS), as part of its ongoing efforts to strengthen security across the state.

Commander-General of the NFSS, Joshua Osatimehin, confirmed the development during a press briefing on Sunday in Abuja, following an operational visit to Bauchi State.

Osatimehin praised Governor Bala Mohammed for his consistent support to the NFSS, noting that the governor’s efforts had significantly enhanced the effectiveness of forest security operations in the state.

“Today, Bauchi remains one of the most peaceful states in Northern Nigeria,” Osatimehin said. “This is evidence of his contribution and commitment to internal security and, by extension, to national security. He has really provided us with modern security infrastructure to meet the test of time in tackling crime and criminality.”

He disclosed that the state had previously allocated nearly N150 million for the procurement of arms and ammunition to support the organisation’s operations.

The NFSS commander called on other northern governors to replicate Bauchi’s model in their respective states, especially in addressing security challenges in the North East, North West, and North Central regions.

“We urge state governments to engage with the NFSS command structures in their states and incorporate us into the broader security architecture,” he said.

Speaking at the briefing, Deputy Commander-General (Intelligence), John Metchie, commended NFSS operatives in Bauchi for their commitment to combating criminal activities. He also appealed to the public to avoid generalising criminal behaviour, particularly in relation to Fulani communities.

“We must stop stereotyping Fulani people as inherently violent. Many of the challenges we face stem from the infiltration of foreign herders through our porous borders,” Metchie said.

Assistant Commander-General (Operations), Umar Aliu, provided further details about the support provided by the Bauchi State Government. He said the administration has been paying monthly salaries to over 800 forest security operatives and maintains an active insurance policy that guarantees a N5 million compensation to the families of operatives killed in the line of duty.

Aliu added that, beyond the recent approval of 2,000 new recruits, the government had also provided operational vehicles, motorcycles, and allowances to enhance field activities.