Enugu Appoints Battle-Tested Officers to Lead Forest Guard in Crackdown on Threats | CABLE REPORTERS

 

Enugu, Nigeria – June 20, 2025

The Governor of Enugu State, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has approved the appointment of new leadership for the Enugu State Forest Guard as part of efforts to strengthen security and environmental protection in the state.

In a statement issued by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, Colonel Dan Didiugwu (rtd) has been appointed Chairman of the Enugu State Forest Guard, pending confirmation by the Enugu State House of Assembly. In addition, DCP Olamitisoji Akinbamilayo, PhD (rtd) has been appointed Commander of the Enugu State Forest Guard, with immediate effect.

The statement noted that the restructuring is in line with the government’s broader strategy to enhance the effectiveness and professionalism of forest and environmental security operations. It also announced that the position of State Coordinator of the Forest Guard has been officially abolished, with the role now subsumed under the newly established office of the Commander.

The government expressed confidence in the leadership and experience of the new appointees, noting their potential to transform the Forest Guard into a more efficient and responsive security outfit.

 The statement reads:

GOVERNOR MBAH APPROVES APPOINTMENT OF NEW LEADERSHIP FOR ENUGU STATE FOREST GUARD

The Governor of Enugu State, His Excellency, Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, has approved the appointment of Colonel Dan Didiugwu (rtd) as the Chairman of the Enugu State Forest Guard, and DCP Olamitisoji Akinbamilayo, PhD (rtd) as the Commander of the Enugu State Forest Guard.

The appointment of the Chairman of the Forest Guard Board, which is subject to confirmation by the Enugu State House of Assembly, and that of the Commander of the Forest Guard, which takes effect immediately, are part of the State Government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen and professionalize forest and environmental security operations across Enugu State, in alignment with its commitment to safeguarding lives, property, and natural resources.

It is further announced that the office of Commander of the Forest Guard supersedes the previously existing position of State Coordinator, which is now abolished.

The State Government expresses confidence in the capacity and experience of both Colonel Didiugwu and DCP Akinbamilayo to reposition the Forest Guard into a highly responsive and efficient outfit.

Signed:

Prof. Chidiebere Onyia

Secretary to the State Government