The Kano State command of the Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS) has pledged to intensify efforts to protect the state’s forests, mineral resources, and natural assets.

State commander Abdullahi Al’ameen made the pledge on Friday during a strategic visit to the Kano State Ministry of Mineral Resources.

He said the visit aimed to strengthen collaboration and coordinate security operations to safeguard the state’s natural resources.

Mr Al’ameen stated that the service would work closely with the ministry and other security agencies to protect forests and mineral resources from illegal activities and environmental threats.

“Our personnel will collaborate with the ministry and other relevant security agencies to secure Kano’s forests,” he assured.

He explained that the collaboration would focus on community-based security surveillance, neighbourhood patrols, emergency response support, and operational synergy with agencies such as the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC).

“This partnership is part of broader efforts to strengthen institutional cooperation in addressing security challenges around mining communities and forest zones,” he said.

He disclosed that 22 of Kano’s 44 local government areas have mineral deposits, particularly in rural communities.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Mineral Resources, Hamza Safiyanu, commended the NFSS for its commitment to safeguarding the state’s natural resources.

He noted that effective protection of mineral resources requires collaboration among government institutions, local communities, and security agencies.

Such cooperation, he added, was necessary to prevent illegal exploitation and ensure sustainable resource management.

Mr Safiyanu said the partnership between the ministry and NFSS would strengthen environmental security and improve surveillance of mining areas across the state. 

(NAN)