JUST IN: AIYEDATIWA APPROVES 1,000-YOUTH FOREST GUARD RECRUITMENT

AIYEDATIWA APPROVES 1,000-YOUTH FOREST GUARD RECRUITMENT

Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has announced plans to recruit 1,000 young people into the state Forest Guard as part of efforts to strengthen security and create employment opportunities for youths across the state.

The governor made the announcement on Tuesday during a courtesy visit by members of the Ondo State Youth Parliament at the Cocoa Conference Hall, Governor’s Office, Akure, where he noted that the initiative is being implemented as part of a Federal Government-backed programme aimed at improving internal security and expanding youth participation in safety operations.

Aiyedatiwa stated that the recruitment exercise would be open to qualified youths below the age of 39, explaining that the nature of the training and responsibilities requires individuals who are physically fit and capable of handling demanding field operations. He added that applicants above 40 may not be able to cope with the rigours of the assignment.

He assured that the recruits would receive adequate protection and support while on duty, stressing that the government would not expose them to unnecessary risks in the line of service.

The governor also referenced the state’s security architecture, noting that since the establishment of the Ondo State Security Network Agency, popularly known as Amotekun Corps, no operative has lost his life in active service. He, however, acknowledged that some personnel had sustained injuries in the line of duty and confirmed that they received proper medical attention and government support.

Aiyedatiwa urged the Youth Parliament to be diligent in recommending only credible and responsible individuals for the recruitment process, warning that those engaged must remain committed to protecting communities rather than becoming a security risk themselves. He further encouraged youths to remain active participants in safeguarding their environment, reiterating the importance of public vigilance with the message, “whenever you see something, say something.”

In response to requests from the youth representatives, the governor approved the provision of a utility bus to support the operations of the Youth Parliament and enhance its activities across the state. He also expressed readiness to receive members of the national body of the Youth Parliament during a planned visit to Ondo State.

Aiyedatiwa further assured that his administration would continue to support the ongoing development of the Youth Policy Document being prepared by the parliament, describing it as an important framework for youth inclusion and long-term development planning in the state. He also reiterated his administration’s commitment to increasing youth representation in government, promising additional appointments and responsibilities for young people in various sectors.

Earlier, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Henry Omoyofunmi, commended the governor for prioritising youth development and creating opportunities through targeted human capital investments. He noted that several youths employed through agencies such as the Hospitals Management Board and Primary Health Care services had already received appointment letters and resumed duties.

Omoyofunmi assured that youths across the 18 local government areas of the state would continue to support the administration’s development agenda.

The Deputy Speaker of the Ondo State Youth Parliament, Aliu Moshood Abiodun, praised the governor’s engagement with young people and pledged continued support in promoting government achievements within their constituencies. He also appealed for assistance in finalising the Youth Policy Document, describing it as central to the parliament’s objectives.

Similarly, the National Representative of the Youth Parliament from Ondo State, Blessing Ogunmolasuyi, commended the governor for financial support that enabled Ondo delegates to participate in national activities of the Nigeria Youth Parliament in Abuja, saying it strengthened the state’s representation at the national level.

Government officials present at the meeting included the Deputy Governor, Dr. Olayide Adelami; Commissioner for Environment, Dr. Tob Loko; Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Adesoji Afolabi; Special Adviser to the Governor on Communication and Strategy, Allen Sowore; and local government chairmen of Akure South and Okitipupa, Gbenga Fasua and Andrew Ogunsakin, among others.

The statement was issued by Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.

June 23, 2026.