President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State following the abduction of pupils and teachers from schools in Oriire Local Government Area.
PrimeTimes Nigeria reports that a high-powered Federal Government delegation visited Esiele and Yawota communities on Sunday, May 31, 2026, to convey the President’s concern and assure residents of efforts to secure the victims’ release.
The abducted victims were taken from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School on May 15, 2026.
The Presidency said Tinubu had directed a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers.
The President also directed that the operation should be intelligence-led and carefully coordinated.
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 delegation was led by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila.
Other members included the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu; Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; and Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.
Addressing residents in English and Yoruba, Gbajabiamila said Tinubu was deeply troubled by the incident and had directed security agencies to deploy all necessary resources.
“Mr. President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely,” he said.
“Your pain and anxiety are understood. By the grace of God, your children will return safely to your arms.”
He added that the rescue operation would combine both kinetic and non-kinetic measures.
The delegation also visited the palace of the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, to commiserate with him and his people.
Gbajabiamila also met with Mrs. Mary Oyedokun, wife of the deceased schoolteacher, and her two children.
He delivered the President’s condolences and assured the family that they would not be abandoned.