Democracy Day: Opening Up Nigeria’s Forests Will Strengthen National Security and Unlock Economic Prosperity — Hon. Tayo Abidakun Jaja
As Nigeria commemorates this year’s Democracy Day, a prominent community leader and public affairs commentator, Hon. Tayo Abidakun Jaja, has called on the Federal Government to urgently open up the nation’s vast forest reserves as a strategic measure to address the growing security challenges facing the country.
Hon. Jaja made the appeal in a statement made available to the media, emphasizing that the forests across Nigeria have unfortunately become safe havens for criminal elements, including kidnappers, bandits, armed robbers, and other perpetrators of violent crimes. According to him, opening up the forests through the construction of access roads, security outposts, surveillance systems, and agricultural development projects would significantly reduce criminal activities and enhance public safety.
He noted that one of the greatest benefits of developing the nation’s forests is the restoration of effective security monitoring. “When forests remain inaccessible and abandoned, they naturally become breeding grounds for criminal operations. However, when government presence is established through infrastructure and security architecture, criminal elements will have no place to hide,” he said.
The public affairs advocate further stressed that opening up the forests would not only improve security but also create enormous economic opportunities for millions of Nigerians. He explained that properly managed forest development would encourage agriculture, tourism, timber production, mining activities, and other legitimate investments capable of generating employment and boosting national revenue.
Hon. Jaja also observed that many rural communities located near forest areas have suffered neglect over the years due to poor accessibility and inadequate government presence. He maintained that opening the forests would stimulate rural development, facilitate the provision of social amenities, improve transportation networks, and promote inclusive growth across various parts of the country.
While congratulating Nigerians on the nation’s democratic journey, he urged political leaders at all levels to prioritize policies that directly impact the welfare and security of citizens. He emphasized that democracy can only flourish in an environment where lives and properties are adequately protected and where citizens can freely pursue their economic activities without fear.
As the nation reflects on the gains and challenges of democratic governance, Hon. Tayo Abidakun Jaja reiterated his call on the Federal Government, relevant security agencies, and environmental stakeholders to collaborate in developing and securing Nigeria’s forests. He expressed confidence that such a proactive initiative would not only strengthen national security but also unlock untapped economic potential, foster sustainable development, and contribute significantly to the peace, unity, and prosperity of the country.