NFSS Commander-General Demands Discipline, Loyalty as Internal Challenges Test Officers’ Resolve

Dr Osatimehin Wole urges Nigeria Forest Security Service personnel to stay committed to lawful duty, national security and unity amid organisational tensions

The Commander-General of the Nigeria Forest Security Service (NFSS), Dr Osatimehin Joshua Wole, has challenged officers and men of the service to remain disciplined, committed and loyal to their constitutional duties despite what he described as recent internal challenges confronting the organisation.

Addressing personnel, Dr Osatimehin said the current period should be seen as a turning point that requires restraint, maturity and renewed dedication to service, rather than a moment of division or disobedience.

He stressed that the future of the NFSS depends not on the misconduct of a few individuals but on the integrity, discipline and loyalty of the majority who remain committed to lawful service.

“As we stand at the threshold of a new dawn, this moment calls for strength, selfless service and renewed commitment to the socio-economic and security needs of the nation,” he said.

Dr Osatimehin acknowledged that officers were entering the year with “many expectations and challenges,” noting that some recent experiences within the service had been painful.

“However, 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,” he stated.

The NFSS boss reminded personnel that their loyalty remains “firm and unwavering” to the Federal Republic of Nigeria and to lawful directives of the federal government, warning that no internal disagreement or disappointment should result in actions capable of undermining national peace or the credibility of the service.

He described professionalism as a quality most evident during difficult periods, commending officers who had chosen restraint over reaction and national interest over personal grievances.

“This moment calls for maturity, patience and wisdom. Your conduct reflects honour and strengthens the foundation of this organisation,” he said.

Dr Osatimehin also assured officers that the leadership of the service was addressing all issues through lawful and institutional channels, with justice and accountability expected to follow due process.

He urged officers not to allow anger, disappointment or feelings of betrayal to weaken discipline or divide the service, reiterating that the NFSS mission remains the protection of Nigeria’s forests and natural resources, support for national security and service to communities with professionalism and integrity.

“Let our actions speak louder than our pain. Let our discipline prove our loyalty. And let our unity secure the future of this organisation,” he added.

Also speaking, the NFSS Commander in Imo State, Dr Fabian Onyebuchi Iwuoha, commended the Commander-General for what he described as fatherly leadership and encouragement.

Dr Iwuoha pledged the loyalty of the Imo State Command and reaffirmed the commitment of officers in the state to safeguarding forest areas and advancing the vision of the organisation.