Abuja: The Deputy Commander-General (Intelligence) of Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS), Dr John Metchie, has emphasized the organization's critical role in enhancing Nigeria's security framework by addressing gaps in intelligence and security operations. Metchie made these remarks following the completion of a training program for NFSS's Intelligence, Surveillance, and Provost personnel.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, Metchie highlighted the importance of intelligence as the foundation of security measures, asserting that the forest guards possess valuable and actionable intelligence crucial for combating insecurity in forested regions. He reiterated his belief that forest guards are the essential missing link in Nigeria's security architecture and expressed gratitude to the President for his commitment to security improvements. Metchie urged the President to sign the pending bill that would empower NFSS to support existing security agencies.

Metchie praised the leadership of NFSS Commander-General Dr Joshua Osatimehin for his strategic efforts in securing legal backing for the service and for his role in the training initiative. He expressed confidence that the trained personnel would return to their duties more prepared and dedicated to serving the nation.

Dr Stephen Okwori, a consultant on security, safety, and crime management, pointed out that crime is an inevitable aspect of any society, and it is the responsibility of the government and security agencies to mitigate it. Okwori argued that the President's approval of the NFSS Bill would significantly bolster security and intelligence efforts in local communities, where violent crimes are prevalent. He noted that the lack of security presence in rural areas and the extensive forested regions have contributed to the country's heightened insecurity.

Okwori further explained that the NFSS, once legally established, would fill the intelligence gathering gap and complement the work of conventional security services. He highlighted that the absence of local intelligence services has led to significant intelligence failures, underscoring the need for NFSS's involvement in generating local intelligence for military and security agencies.