BY: EMMANUEL CHUKWUMA, ENUGU.
The Commander-General Nigeria Forest Security Service, (NFSS), Dr. Osatimehin Joshua Wole, has charged officers to remain dedicated, committed, focused and determined in carrying out the core mandate of the organization.
He gave this admonition while addressing the officers and men of the command.
According to him, as they stand at the threshold of a new dawn, this calls for strength, selfless service and renewed commitment to the socio economic and security of the nation.
According to him, this year calls for an opportunity for reflection, renewal, and rededication to purpose. “Yet, I am fully aware that we have entered this year with many expectations and challenges. Such experiences are painful, and it would be unrealistic to pretend otherwise.
“However, I urge you to remember this truth: the future of the Nigeria Forest Security Service does not rest on the misconduct of a few, but on the discipline, loyalty, and integrity of the many who remain committed to lawful service.
“Today, more than ever, I call on every officer to rise above emotion and uncertainty and to embrace the values that define us as a professional security organisation — discipline, respect for authority, unity of purpose, and service to the nation.
“Let me state clearly and without ambiguity, our loyalty remains firm and unwavering to the Federal Republic of Nigeria and to the lawful orders and directives of the federal government.
“No internal challenge, provocation, or disappointment should ever lead us into disobedience, disorder, or actions that could undermine national peace or the credibility of this service.”
The Commander General stressed that true professionalism is tested not when circumstances are favourable, but when they are difficult.
“This moment calls for maturity, patience, and wisdom.I commend the many officers who have chosen restraint over reaction, order over confusion, and national interest over personal grievance.
“Your conduct reflects honour and strengthens the foundation of this organisation. I ask you to see this moment not as an end, but as a turning point. Let the lessons of the past strengthen our resolve. Let the challenges we have faced deepen our commitment to transparency, accountability, and lawful conduct. And let the hope of a better future renew our courage to serve diligently.”
He assured the Officers that leadership is attentive and committed to addressing all issues through proper, lawful, and institutional channels. While highlighting that justice and accountability will take their course, guided by due process and respect for constituted authority.
“Until then, I urge you all to remain calm, focused, and united.Our mission remains clear,
to protect Nigeria’s forests and natural resources. Support national security, environmental sustainability and serve communities with professionalism, integrity, and respect.
“Do not allow anger to distract you from duty. Do not allow disappointment to weaken discipline.
Do not allow betrayal to divide what service and sacrifice have built.
“let us recommit ourselves to being officers of honour, guardians of order, and servants of the Nigerian nation. Let our actions speak louder than our pain. Let our discipline prove our loyalty. And let our unity secure the future of this organisation.
“I have faith in you. I believe in your resilience, your courage, and your dedication. Together, under the authority of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, we will continue to move forward, stronger and more united than before. We pray for renewed strength, wisdom in leadership, peace within our ranks, and success in our mission.”
Speaking, the Commander, NFSS, Imo State, Dr. Fabian Onyebuchi Iwuoha commended Dr. Osatimehin for his fatherly love, support and encouragement.
He pledged the loyalty of the state command and promised to work assiduously towards securing the forest and realization of the dreams, vision and aspirations of the organization.