The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Gombe State Command, has intensified efforts to secure agricultural investments with the inauguration of a newly constructed Agro Rangers operational base in Kanawa Forest Reserve, Yamaltu/Deba Local Government Area.
The facility, unveiled on Monday, is designed to strengthen the protection of critical agricultural assets while addressing persistent farmer–herder conflicts in the region.
The Agro Rangers Unit of the NSCDC was created to bridge security gaps within Nigeria’s agricultural sector, with a mandate that includes safeguarding farmlands, ranches, silos, and forest reserves, as well as mediating disputes to support food security and national stability.
Constructed by the Gombe State Government with support from the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACRESAL) Project, the base is equipped with furnished residential accommodation, a solar-powered energy system, and a motorised borehole to ensure operational efficiency.
According to a statement issued by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, Buhari Saad, the project reflects ongoing efforts to enhance security architecture in agrarian communities across the state.
Speaking during the inauguration, the State Commandant of NSCDC, Jibrin Idris, described the facility as a strategic response to emerging threats around agricultural investments, noting that it aligns with directives to reinforce security presence in vulnerable areas.
He stated that the Agro Rangers would enforce strict measures to prevent encroachment, illegal logging, and clashes between farmers and herders within the corridor, positioning the base as a critical forward operating centre for personnel.
Idris added that the unit would provide round-the-clock security for surrounding communities, including Kwadon, as well as protect the Kanawa Forest Biosphere and Botanical Garden, stressing the Corps’ commitment to safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and the state’s green economy.
He commended Governor Muhammadu Yahaya for his support in actualising the project and praised the ACRESAL State Project Coordinator, Dr Sani Jauro, for advancing environmental and agricultural resilience initiatives.
As part of the rollout, two operational motorcycles donated by ACRESAL were also commissioned to enhance rapid response and patrol activities within the area.
The commandant further called on residents to collaborate with security agencies, urging communities to embrace peaceful conflict resolution mechanisms, including the Corps’ Alternative Dispute Resolution framework, to address agrarian disputes sustainably.
