President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards to strengthen security operations in Katsina State.

Governor Dikko Radda disclosed this while briefing journalists after a meeting with Islamic clerics and other stakeholders at the Government House in Katsina.

Radda said the engagement was part of efforts to address insecurity through community participation, noting that the government sought the views of religious leaders on tackling banditry and kidnapping.

The governor stressed that insecurity cannot be tackled by security agencies alone, alleging that some residents aid criminal groups through intelligence sharing, logistics support and the sale of stolen livestock.

He described Islamic clerics as key partners in promoting moral values and mobilising communities against crime.

Radda thanked President Tinubu for approving the recruitment, explaining that the forest guards would work alongside conventional security agencies and community watch groups to improve security in forested and remote areas.

He added that the recruits would receive adequate training and equipment to enhance their effectiveness.