President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State in collaboration with the state government.
This was disclosed by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr Bayo Onanuga, in a statement on Sunday.
The recruitment follows a visit to Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State by a high-powered federal government delegation on Sunday, May 31, 2026.
The team, led by the President’s Chief of Staff, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila, was in the local council 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.
Residents of the communities were promised the safe return of the victims. They were also informed that their request for the establishment of a military base in the area would be conveyed to the President for consideration and approval.
In addition, Mr Tinubu has directed a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.
Mr Gbajabiamila, while addressing residents in both English and Yoruba, said the President’s decision to dispatch the nation’s top security leadership to the affected communities reflected his determination to deploy every available resource towards securing the victims’ release.
“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.
“Your pain and anxiety are understood. By the grace of God, your children will return safely to your arms.
“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 was also at the palace of the Soun of Ogbomoso land, Mr Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, to commiserate with him and his people. The group also met with the wife of the deceased school teacher, Mrs Mary Oyedokun, and her two children.
Other members of the team were the National Security Adviser, Mr Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector-General of Police, Mr Tunji Disu; the Minister of Defence, Mr Christopher Musa; and the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Mr Sunday Dare.