President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State and directed the deployment of a specialised rescue unit following the abduction of pupils and teachers from several schools in the state.
The decision formed part of a series of emergency security measures introduced by the Federal Government in response to the kidnapping incident that occurred in Oriire Local Government Area earlier this month.
The development was disclosed on Sunday by the President’s spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, after a high-powered Federal Government delegation visited the affected communities of Esiele and Yawota to assess the situation and reassure residents of ongoing efforts to secure the victims’ freedom.
The abducted pupils and teachers were reportedly taken from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School during an attack on May 15, 2026.
According to the statement, the recruitment of forest guards will be carried out in partnership with the Oyo State Government as part of broader efforts to improve security surveillance and strengthen protection in forested areas often exploited by criminal groups.
“As part of immediate measures to strengthen security in the area, President Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State in collaboration with the state government,” the statement said.
The Federal Government also acknowledged requests from residents and community leaders for a military installation in the area.
“The delegation also informed community leaders and lawmakers that their request for the establishment of a military base in the area would be conveyed to the President for consideration and approval,” the statement added.
Beyond the recruitment initiative, President Tinubu has ordered a specialised security formation equipped with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts aimed at securing the safe release of the abducted teachers and pupils.
The presidential delegation was led by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila and included several top security officials, among them National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, Minister of Defence Christopher Musa, and Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications Sunday Dare.
During meetings with community leaders, lawmakers and affected families, the delegation conveyed the President’s concern over the incident and reassured residents that every available resource was being deployed to secure the release of the victims.
Addressing community members, Gbajabiamila said the President was deeply disturbed by the abduction and had directed security agencies to spare no effort in bringing the victims home safely.
“Mr. President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely.
”He has issued all necessary directives and is providing every support required by our security agencies to achieve that objective,” he said.
He also sought to reassure anxious parents and relatives awaiting the return of their loved ones.
“Your pain and anxiety are understood. By the grace of God, your children will return safely to your arms,” Gbajabiamila stated.
The Chief of Staff revealed that the President had taken note of appeals from parents and community stakeholders who urged security agencies to proceed carefully during rescue operations.
According to him, authorities are committed to ensuring that every action taken prioritises the safety of the captives.
“Mr. President also saw the appeals from some parents and community members urging caution in the rescue efforts.
”Let me assure you that the operation will be intelligence-led and carefully coordinated, deploying both kinetic and non-kinetic measures to secure the safe return of the victims,” he said.
The delegation’s visit also included a stop at the palace of the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, where government officials expressed sympathy to the traditional ruler and residents over the tragic incident.
Members of the delegation further visited the family of the late school teacher, Mary Oyedokun, meeting with her widow and children as part of efforts to offer support and condolences.
The latest intervention underscores growing concern over the rising threat of school abductions and rural insecurity, with the Federal Government promising stronger security measures and a sustained effort to ensure the safe return of the kidnapped pupils and teachers.
For residents of the affected communities, the recruitment of forest guards, the proposed military presence, and the deployment of specialised rescue teams represent fresh hopes that the victims will soon regain their freedom and that similar attacks can be prevented in the future.
