Be Fearless, Decisive Against Terrorists, Theatre Commander Charges 925 Forest Guards

The Theatre Commander of Joint Task Force North-East, Major General Ibikunle Ajose, addressed 925 newly trained Borno State Forest Guards at their graduation ceremony held on 20 September 2026. The ceremony took place at the North-East Theatre Training School (NETTS) in Buni Yadi, Yobe State, following a two-week acclimatisation training program.

Major General Ajose urged the Forest Guards to maintain their fearlessness, decisiveness, and professionalism as they support counter-terrorism and anti-criminal activities in the state. He highlighted that their knowledge of the local terrain and language would strengthen ongoing military efforts in combating terrorism and insurgency.

The Governor of Borno State, Professor Babagana Umara Zulum, represented by the Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Professor Usman Tar, noted the initiative aimed at providing auxiliary support to Armed Forces and other security agencies. He emphasized that the graduates, drawn from all 27 Local Government Areas of Borno State, would be deployed as needed, leveraging their local understanding for enhanced effectiveness.

Brigadier General Amadike Onaogu, Commandant of NETTS, explained that the training focused on building confidence, resilience, discipline, and adaptability. He clarified that the program was not meant to turn the guards into soldiers but to equip them with skills to complement security operations in their areas.

Major General Ajose praised the Borno State Government's support for security efforts and the Army Chief's guidance for Operation Hadin Kai. He stressed the importance of discipline, professionalism, and respect for the law, reaffirming OPHK's commitment to fighting terrorism and promoting peace in the region.