The Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, has expressed his appreciation for the Nigerian Hunters and Forest Security Service (NHFSS) for their significant contributions to combating crimes, criminal activities, and overall insecurity in Nigeria.
During a courtesy visit to the Royal Palace in Ile-Ife, Osun State, the Commander General of NHFSS, Dr. Joshua Wale Osatimehin, accompanied by senior officers of the service, received commendation from the Ooni.
Speaking in Yoruba language, the Ooni acknowledged the indispensable role played by NHFSS officers and personnel in providing crucial intelligence, information, and manpower to support the Nigerian Police, military, and other security agencies in apprehending and prosecuting criminals, particularly those operating in forests and farmlands.
Emphasizing the importance of the organization, the Ooni highlighted that the NHFSS not only contributes to the fight against crime but also ensures the protection of farms and farmers from bandit attacks and kidnappings across the nation.
Recognizing hunters as a solution to domestic and traditional security, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi promised that the NHFSS Bill would be discussed during an upcoming meeting of traditional rulers.
In his address, Dr. Joshua Wale Osatimehin, the Commander General of NHFSS, expressed gratitude to the Ooni, commending him as an esteemed peacemaker.
He informed the Ooni about NHFSS management’s decision to appoint him as the Grand Patron of the organization, which was gladly accepted by the royal father.
The Commander General then provided an update on the NHFSS’s activities and informed the Ooni that the bill for establishing the service had been passed by both chambers of the 9th Assembly and was awaiting the president’s assent.
Dr. Osatimehin also shared that NHFSS officers and personnel have undergone various training programs organized by the Police, Nigerian Army, Department of State Security (DSS), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), among others, to prepare them for their responsibilities.
The visit concluded with traditional prayers offered by the Ooni, seeking divine success for Dr. Osatimehin and the NHFSS. Additionally, the NHFSS boss presented the ‘Icon of Peace’ plaque to His Imperial Majesty, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR.
