President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State and directed the deployment of a specialised security unit to intensify efforts aimed at securing the release of abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of the state.
The measures were announced on Sunday during a visit by a high-powered Federal Government delegation to Esiele and Yawota communities, following the abduction of pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School on May 15, 2026.
The delegation, led by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, conveyed President Tinubu’s concern over the incident and assured residents of ongoing efforts to secure the safe return of the victims.
“The 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,” Gbajabiamila said.
He confirmed that the President approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State Government as part of immediate measures to strengthen security in affected communities.
“The President has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards for Oyo State as part of immediate measures to strengthen security and protect our communities,” he said.
Gbajabiamila also disclosed that the request for the establishment of a military base in the area would be forwarded to the President for consideration.
“The request for a military base has been received and will be conveyed to Mr. President for consideration and approval,” he said.
Addressing residents in English and Yoruba, he assured families of the abducted victims of the government’s commitment to their safe return.
“Your pain and anxiety are understood. By the grace of God, your children will return safely to your arms,” he said.
He added that security operations would be intelligence-driven and carefully coordinated.
“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 included the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (rtd); and the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.
During the visit, the delegation also met with traditional leaders and the family of a deceased teacher affected by the attack, where condolences were conveyed on behalf of the President.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to restoring security and ensuring the safe rescue of all abducted pupils and teachers.