The Enugu State Forest Guard has rolled out strict new standards for how officers must dress and conduct themselves on duty. Commander Dr.
Akinbayo Olasoji announced the move through Headquarters Standing Operational Order No. 178/2026, which sets out detailed rules on uniforms, appearance, discipline, and professional conduct across the entire corps.
According to Assistant Superintendent Geraldine Chiagozie, the reforms align with Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah's push for a disciplined, intelligence-driven security apparatus capable of protecting lives, property, and forests across the state. The new order forms part of broader institutional reforms meant to strengthen command structures and boost how the corps projects itself publicly.
Olasoji told reporters that as the Forest Guard gains visibility through field work, media coverage, and community engagement, uniform standards have become essential. "A professional security organization must be instantly recognized by its smart turnout, uniformity, discipline, and operational readiness," he said.
The Standing Operational Order prescribes approved uniforms and specifies which days they should be worn. It also sets standards for operational dress during bush patrols and field deployments, including rules on rank insignia, footwear, lanyards, and personal grooming.
Special dress codes for Administrative Officers and the Provost Unit have been established to ensure uniformity and easy identification. The order explicitly prohibits unauthorized uniforms, civilian clothes while on duty without permission, unapproved footwear, and the public display of improvised wooden weapons during official work.
Only Headquarters-approved uniforms and equipment may be worn during official duties, the order states. Personnel must comply strictly with these provisions across all operations and assignments.
To enforce compliance, Directors, Senatorial Commanders, Zonal Commanders, department heads, unit commanders, and sector officers have been instructed to conduct regular inspections. These inspections will occur before office duties, patrols, bush-combing operations, ceremonial events, media engagements, and other official activities.
The Provost Unit now bears responsibility for monitoring compliance and enforcing the order across all commands and units. According to Chiagozie's statement, this oversight role ensures the provisions are upheld throughout the corps.
Olasoji stressed that the initiative extends beyond mere appearance requirements. "Discipline begins with appearance," he said in the statement.
The commander added that the order aims to strengthen institutional culture, promote accountability, and reinforce public confidence in the corps. He noted that each officer and operative should represent the Enugu State government with dignity, honour, and professionalism through their conduct and appearance.
