Positive Think Tanks Initiative (PTTI) has called for the immediate deployment of 1,000 forest guards and a specialised boundary commission taskforce as part of a comprehensive response to Nigeria’s worsening security crisis.
The proposal was presented during a strategic security meeting convened by the Ibadan-based organisation, where members deliberated on measures to combat escalating kidnappings and violent attacks affecting rural communities across the country.
Speaking during the session, the President of PTTI, Mr. Adedamola Adebayo, said the country urgently requires a structured and fully funded intervention capable of restoring security, livelihoods, and public confidence.
“As the government implements a structured, fully funded response to escalating kidnappings and violence affecting rural communities, the goal should be restoring security, livelihoods and public confidence,” Adebayo said.
He added that personnel should be properly equipped and motivated to ensure effectiveness in tackling insecurity in forests and remote communities.
“The deployment of 1,000 forest guards should come with full welfare from day one, including salaries, hazard allowances, secure accommodation, uniforms, operational gear, life and health insurance, as well as retirement benefits,” he stated.
A member of the organisation, Mr. Sola Adegbite, also proposed the establishment of a 1,000-member Boundary Commission Taskforce to strengthen surveillance and security coordination across vulnerable border communities.
He noted that members of the taskforce should enjoy welfare packages similar to those proposed for forest guards, including insurance coverage, standard accommodation, stipends, and opportunities for permanent government employment.
On infrastructure requirements, the Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Barrister Adeyemi Okunade, stressed the need for purpose-built accommodation facilities for security personnel, noting that such facilities should include solar power systems, borehole water supply, armouries, and communication rooms.
Barrister Okunade said the proposed infrastructure should be commenced immediately and completed within 90 days to ensure rapid operational readiness.
Speaking on technology integration, Mr. Oladayo Bello, another member, advocated the deployment of modern surveillance and communication tools to support security operations.
He recommended the use of fixed-wing and rotary drones, night-vision systems, solar-powered CCTV cameras in identified hotspots, floodlights on forest access roads, and encrypted radio communication systems in low-network areas.
Mr. Bello noted that integrating technology into security operations would significantly improve intelligence gathering, response time, and operational coordination.
On implementation strategy, Mr. Segun Shokunbi, a member of the initiative and Chief Whip, said the intervention should begin with an immediate budgetary release, followed by rapid infrastructure deployment, recruitment, and personnel training.
Full operational activation should be achieved within 90 days, with provisions for continuous expansion based on emerging security realities.
Addressing funding and accountability, Mr. Tola Adebayo, the immediate Past President of the initiative, said the proposed intervention should be backed by a ring-fenced budget, federal allocations, and support from development partners.
He also called for the establishment of an independent oversight committee to monitor implementation and ensure transparency.
He further stated that quarterly public reports should be published to provide updates on expenditure, operational progress, and measurable impact.
Positive Think Tanks Initiative (PTTI) is an Ibadan-based non-governmental organisation committed to policy advocacy and civic engagement. Visit us at https://ptti.org.ng/
