The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Gombe State Command, on Monday, inaugurated a newly-constructed Agro Rangers base with residential facilities at the Kanawa Forest Reserve in Yamaltu/Deba Local Government Area.
The unveiling was in a move aimed at strengthening the protection of critical agricultural assets and addressing herder–farmer conflicts.
The NSCDC Agro Rangers Unit was established to bridge security gaps in Nigeria’s agricultural sector, with responsibilities that include protecting farmlands, ranches, silos and forest reserves, as well as mediating disputes to promote food security and national stability.
The facility. equipped with furnished residential accommodation, a solar power system and a motorised borehole—was built by the Gombe State Government with support from the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACRESAL) Project.
According to a press statement issued by the Public Relations Officer of the Gombe NSCDC Command, Buhari Saad, the project is part of efforts to enhance security in agrarian communities.
Speaking at the inauguration, the state Commandant of NSCDC, Jibrin Idris, described the project as a strategic intervention to safeguard agro-allied investments and boost security in the area.
“The establishment of this base is a strategic response to emerging security challenges around agro-allied investments. In line with the directive of our Commandant General, Professor Ahmed Abubakar Audi, the Agro Rangers will ensure zero encroachment, zero illegal logging, and zero farmer-herder clashes within this corridor,” Idris said.
He added that the base would serve as a forward operating centre for Agro Rangers personnel, providing round-the-clock security for the Kwadon community and the Kanawa Forest Biosphere and Botanical Garden.
“We are here to protect lives, livelihoods and the green economy of Gombe State,” he stated.
The commandant commended Governor Muhammadu Yahaya for his support and lauded the ACRESAL State Project Coordinator, Dr Sani Jauro, for his commitment to strengthening environmental and agricultural resilience in the state.
Two operational motorcycles donated by ACRESAL were also inaugurated to enhance rapid response and patrol operations within the area.
Idris further urged residents of host communities to collaborate with security personnel and adopt peaceful means of resolving disputes.
“We call on communities to cooperate with Agro Rangers personnel and take advantage of the Corps’ Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanisms for the peaceful resolution of agrarian conflicts,” he said.
