ENUGU, Nigeria (VOICE OF NAIJA)- The Enugu State Forest Guard has introduced a comprehensive operational directive aimed at strengthening discipline, professionalism and institutional identity across its ranks.
The new policy, contained in Headquarters Standing Operational Order No. 178/2026, sets out detailed regulations on uniforms, operational dress, rank insignia, approved accoutrements, personal appearance and conduct for all officers and operatives of the corps.
Announcing the directive in Enugu, the Commander of the Enugu State Forest Guard, Dr. Akinbayo Olasoji, said the reforms are part of ongoing efforts to build a disciplined, intelligence-driven and technology-enabled security outfit capable of effectively protecting lives, forests, public assets and communities across the state.
According to a statement issued by the Corps’ Assistant Superintendent, Geraldine Chiagozie, the operational order is designed to reinforce discipline, improve command and control, promote operational efficiency and establish a distinct corporate identity for the Forest Guard.
The statement noted that the increasing visibility of the corps during security operations, community engagements and media appearances made it necessary to standardise operational procedures and personnel appearance in line with the expectations of a modern government security organisation.
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Under the new directive, the Forest Guard has approved official uniforms for specific days, prescribed operational kits for bush-combing and field assignments, and outlined standards for footwear, rank badges, lanyards, personal grooming and other official accessories.
Special dress regulations have also been introduced for administrative personnel and the Provost Unit to improve uniformity and ensure easy identification of officers while on duty.
The order further prohibits the use of unauthorised uniforms, civilian clothing during official assignments without approval, inappropriate footwear and the public display or operational use of improvised wooden weapons.
It emphasised that only uniforms, equipment and operational accessories approved by the Forest Guard Headquarters will be permitted during official duties.
To ensure strict implementation, directors, senatorial commanders, zonal commanders, heads of departments, unit commanders and sector officers have been directed to conduct routine inspections before patrols, office duties, ceremonial engagements, bush operations and media appearances.
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The Provost Unit has also been tasked with monitoring compliance and enforcing the provisions of the operational order across all commands and units of the corps.
Explaining the rationale behind the reforms, Olasoji said professionalism begins with discipline and appearance.
“A professional security organisation should be recognised instantly by its discipline, smart turnout and operational readiness. This Standing Operational Order goes beyond uniforms.
“It is about strengthening institutional culture, promoting accountability, boosting public confidence and ensuring that every officer represents the Enugu State Government with honour, dignity and professionalism,” he said.
The commander reaffirmed the corps’ commitment to continuous institutional reforms, intelligence-led security operations, respect for the rule of law and stronger collaboration with communities and other security agencies in safeguarding lives and supporting sustainable development across Enugu State.
The Standing Operational Order takes immediate effect, with all commands and operational units directed to ensure full compliance.