The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, Gombe State Command, has inaugurated a newly constructed Agro Rangers base at the Kanawa Forest Reserve in Yamaltu/Deba Local Government Area to strengthen security around agricultural assets and curb farmer–herder conflicts.
The facility, built by the Gombe State Government with support from the Agro-Climatic Resilience in Semi-Arid Landscapes (ACRESAL) Project, is equipped with residential accommodation, solar power, and a motorised borehole to support round-the-clock operations.
According to a statement by the command’s Public Relations Officer, Buhari Saad, the initiative is part of broader efforts to enhance security in agrarian communities and safeguard critical investments in the agricultural sector.
Speaking at the inauguration, the State Commandant, Jibrin Idris, described the base as a strategic intervention aligned with directives from the Corps’ leadership. He noted that the Agro Rangers unit—established to protect farmlands, ranches, silos, and forest reserves—will also play a key role in mediating disputes to promote food security and national stability.
“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 stated.
He explained that the base would serve as a forward operating centre for personnel, providing security coverage for surrounding communities, including Kwadon, as well as the Kanawa Forest Biosphere and Botanical Garden.
Idris commended Muhammadu Yahaya for supporting the initiative and praised the ACRESAL State Project Coordinator, Dr Sani Jauro, for efforts toward environmental sustainability and agricultural resilience.
As part of the rollout, two operational motorcycles donated by ACRESAL were also deployed to improve patrol and rapid response capabilities in the area.
The commandant urged residents to cooperate with security personnel and embrace peaceful conflict resolution methods, highlighting the Corps’ Alternative Dispute Resolution mechanisms as a viable approach to addressing agrarian disputes.
