…Position of State Coordinator Abolished as Government Moves to Professionalize Forest Security Operations
The Enugu State Government has announced the appointment of new leadership for the Enugu State Forest Guard, marking a significant step in its ongoing efforts to strengthen security and environmental protection across the state.
According to a public service announcement signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, and released Friday, June 20, 2025, Governor Dr. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah has approved the appointment of Colonel Dan Didiugwu (rtd) as the Chairman of the Enugu State Forest Guard, and Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Olamitisoji Akinbamilayo, PhD (rtd) as the Commander of the Enugu State Forest Guard.
While Col. Didiugwu’s appointment is subject to confirmation by the Enugu State House of Assembly, DCP Akinbamilayo’s appointment takes immediate effect.
The announcement stated that these appointments are part of Governor Mbah’s broader commitment to “safeguarding lives, property, and natural resources” through a more robust and professional forest and environmental security system.
“These appointments are in alignment with the state government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen and professionalize forest and environmental security operations across Enugu State,” the statement noted.
In a major restructuring move, the office of the State Coordinator of the Forest Guard has now been abolished, with the Commander’s position elevated to assume overarching operational authority.
The government expressed confidence in the newly appointed leaders, emphasizing their wealth of experience and professional backgrounds.
“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,” Onyia added.
This development is expected to bolster the operational capacity of the Forest Guard, especially in rural and forested areas that have witnessed increasing threats to environmental safety and local livelihoods.