As part of urgent measures to strengthen security in Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State government.
The approval was disclosed in a statement issued on Sunday by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, following the visit of a high-powered Federal Government delegation to the affected communities after the May 15, 2026, abduction of pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School.
The delegation conveyed President Tinubu’s deep concern over the incident and his commitment to securing the safe return of the victims.
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The delegation also informed community leaders and lawmakers that their request to establish a military base in the area would be conveyed to the President for consideration and approval.
In addition, the President has directed a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts to secure the release of the abducted pupils and teachers.
The delegation was led by the Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, and included the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu; the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa; and Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications.
Addressing residents, Gbajabiamila 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.
