President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State and deployed a specialised rescue team to intensify efforts to secure the release of pupils and teachers abducted from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area.

The Federal Government announced the measures on Sunday during a visit by a high-powered delegation to Esiele and Yawota communities, where pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School were abducted on May 15.

The delegation conveyed President Tinubu’s concern over the incident and reassured residents that every available security resource was being mobilised to ensure the safe return of the victims.

Leading the delegation was the President’s Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, alongside the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (retd.); and the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.

Addressing community members in English and Yoruba, Gbajabiamila said the President had directed security agencies to intensify rescue operations using both intelligence-driven and tactical approaches.

“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 assured anxious parents and residents that the rescue operation would be carefully coordinated to avoid jeopardising the safety of the abductees.

“Your pain and anxiety are understood. By the grace of God, your children will return safely to your arms,” Gbajabiamila added.

As part of immediate security measures, the President approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards to strengthen surveillance and security operations across vulnerable forest areas in Oyo State. The initiative will be implemented in collaboration with the state government.

Tinubu also ordered the deployment of a specialised security unit equipped with advanced rescue capabilities to accelerate efforts aimed at freeing the abducted pupils and teachers.

Community leaders used the opportunity to request the establishment of a military base in the area to tackle recurring security threats. The delegation promised to forward the request to the President for consideration.

The federal team also paid a condolence visit to the palace of the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, where they sympathised with the monarch and residents over the tragic incident.

In addition, the delegation met with Mrs. Mary Oyedokun, widow of a deceased teacher affected by the attack, and her two children. Gbajabiamila conveyed President Tinubu’s condolences and assured the family of government support.

The latest intervention comes amid growing concerns over school security and rising cases of kidnapping across parts of the country, with the Federal Government pledging to take stronger measures to protect students, teachers, and vulnerable communities.