Assistant Commander General (ACG)of Nigerian Hunters and Forestry Security Service (NHFSS) in charge of Technical Services, Chief Johnny Chukwudi Metchie, has said South East governors would begin recruitment of able-bodied young men and women into the Forest Guard Service in 2023.
Metchie, who is Prime Minister of the Association of Anambra State Town Unions (ASATU) and President-General of the Umueri community, made the disclosure when NHFSS men and officers from Anambra State paid him a courtesy visit in his country home.
He said the programme, when it begins, would see to the engagement of hundreds of thousands of youths from the five states and check insecurity in the region.
Metchie hinted that the forest guards would work with regular security operatives.
The ACG, who doubles as African Director of the International Association of World Peace Advocates, noted that in due time, the Hunters and Forestry Security Service would take over the protection of forests nationwide as obtained in the United States, Canada, South Africa and other advanced nations.
He added that the programme would protect farmers and their produce across the federation.
His words: “First, let me formally inform you that, on Friday, December 15, just about two weeks ago, I was appointed and decorated as Assistant Commander General of the Nigerian Hunters and Forestry Security Service in charge of Technical Service. The ceremony, which took place at the Abuja headquarters of the Service, was performed by the Commander General, Dr Osetimehim Jacob Wole.
“Second, I need to also let you know that both the Senate and the House of Representatives have passed the Hunters Bill waiting for President Muhammadu Buhari to give his assent. When he does, you will then be officially permitted to bear arms and given other necessary facilities to function fully as Forest Guards, as is done in the United States and other developed countries.
“It is, therefore, hoped that you all would appreciate what is coming your way and prepare yourselves for a greater service to protect farms and forests in Anambra and Nigeria in general.”
He continued: “By my appointment as Assistant Commander General in charge of Technical Services, I will ensure that working with state governors, town union leaders, traditional rulers and other stakeholders, we would recruit thousands of able-bodied young men and women into the Nigerian Hunters and Forestry Security Service, especially in the South East while providing technical services nationwide, as my new position provides.
“We have already commenced discussions with South East governors on modalities of recruitment and operational modus and hopefully, actions would begin to take effect after New Year celebrations.
“I want to sincerely thank you for making us proud so far, which has led to the government recognising the Umueri hunters’ model and for which we have recruited many people.”
Earlier, Anambra State Commander of the NHFSS, Chief Ojudogwo Titus Chukwudi, who led the delegation, said they came to appreciate Metchie’s numerous contributions to the welfare of officers and men of the Service, as well as congratulate him (Metchie) on his appointment and decoration as Assistant Commander General (Technical Services).”
Highlight of the occasion was the presentation of the Meritorious Service Award to Metchie, who in appreciation, donated a Toyota Siena car to the South East zone of Hunters and Forestry Security Service to enhance their operations.
