The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has advocated for the Nigerian Hunter and Forest Security Service (NHFSS) to be constitutionally recognized within the nation’s security framework.
In a statement released in Abuja on Sunday, the monarch expressed this sentiment during a visit by the Commander General of NHFSS, Joshua Osatimehin, to his palace in Ile Ife, Osun State.
The Ooni of Ife commended the commander general for his consistent efforts in complementing the activities of other security agencies in addressing the various security challenges in the country.
He emphasized that granting constitutional recognition to the NHFSS would significantly contribute to the reduction of banditry, kidnapping, Boko Haram, terrorism, and other forms of security threats faced by Nigeria.
The Ooni, who spoke in Yoruba language, said, “All well-meaning Nigerians can attest to how officers and men of the NHFSS are providing needed intelligence and other information as well as the manpower in collaboration with the police, the military and other security agencies towards the arrest and prosecution of criminals in Nigeria, especially those happening within forests and farmlands.”
The Ooni of Ife highlighted that the NHFSS has played a crucial role in curbing criminal activities, particularly in the forests surrounding Osun State.
He also assured that the Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Service Bill, which aims to legalize the operations of different hunter groups in Nigeria, would be discussed during a meeting of traditional rulers.
Furthermore, he mentioned that the bill would be presented to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for consideration, and logistics would be provided to support the organization in fulfilling its mandate.
In addition, Oba Ogunwusi urged men and officials of the NHFSS to continue serving with dedication and patriotism, while emphasizing the need for further measures to address the country’s security challenges.
In the statement, Commander General Osatimehin expressed that he visited the palace to seek the royal blessings and support for the NHFSS programs and activities aimed at enhancing security nationwide.
He expressed gratitude to the monarch for granting him and his team an audience in his palace.
The commander-general also expressed appreciation for the planned support from the traditional ruler towards the NHFSS.
He affirmed that the service would remain steadfast in its commitment to protecting the lives and property of Nigerians by providing necessary assistance in intelligence gathering to relevant security agencies.
Furthermore, he requested the same support and cooperation from other traditional rulers across the country to enable President Tinubu’s administration to achieve its agenda of improved security in Nigeria.
