MATAN Partners with Nigerian Hunters & Forest Security Service to Ensure Market Security and Food Stability
In a significant stride towards enhancing market security and ensuring food stability within Nigeria, the Market Traders’ Association of Nigeria (MATAN) has forged a strategic partnership with The Nigerian Hunter and Forest Security Service.
Led by Ambassador Olakunle Moses Johnson, Chairman of the Integrated Market Revenue Management System on VAT Direct Initiative (IMRMS-VDI), this collaboration aims primarily to secure marketplaces and protect market traders, forming a crucial part of MATAN’s incentive structure.
The core objective of this partnership is to provide a safe environment for farmers and stakeholders operating within Nigeria’s forests and rural areas, thereby fostering economic growth and stability.
Ambassador Johnson stressed the indispensable role of security in bolstering economic prosperity, highlighting the government’s commitment to ensuring citizens’ safety.
He emphasized the necessity of collaborative efforts with relevant agencies, acknowledging the vital contribution of hunters and forest security services in safeguarding communities, particularly in forested regions.
“Insecurity poses a significant threat to our economy, hindering growth and prosperity. The government is dedicated to addressing this challenge, and partnering with agencies like The Nigerian Hunter and Forest Security Service is crucial to our strategy,” Ambassador Johnson remarked.
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Recognizing security as a collective responsibility, Ambassador Johnson urged hunters to complement governmental efforts by securing forests and eliminating criminal elements hindering farmers’ productivity and the informal sector’s safety.
Citing statistics on the substantial contribution of the informal sector to Nigeria’s economy, Ambassador Johnson highlighted its potential for further expansion, particularly within the vast forested areas of Nigeria’s landmass.
In response, Amb. (Dr.) Joshua Wole Osatimehin, Commander General of the Nigerian Hunter & Forest Security Service, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to collaborating with law enforcement agencies in protecting lives and properties within ungoverned areas, including forests and rural regions.
“The Nigerian Hunter and Forest Security Service are dedicated to enhancing security in Nigeria’s forests, collaborating closely with governmental bodies and stakeholders to combat criminal activities and promote economic prosperity,” stated Amb. Osatimehin.
Expressing gratitude to MATAN for their interest in their work, Amba. Osatimehin assured Ambassador Olakunle Moses Johnson and market traders of the Nigerian Hunter and Forest Security Service’s full commitment to safeguarding ungoverned areas and market places in Nigeria.
The partnership between MATAN and The Nigerian Hunter and Forest Security Service marks a significant milestone in fostering a secure environment conducive to economic growth within Nigeria’s informal sector.
