President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State and directed the deployment of a specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities following the abduction of pupils and teachers from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area.
The directive was conveyed on Sunday, May 31, 2026, by a high-powered Federal Government delegation that visited Esiele and Yawota communities, where gunmen attacked Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School on May 15 and took dozens of children and teachers captive.
According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the forest guards will be recruited in collaboration with the Oyo State Government as an immediate measure to strengthen security and improve surveillance in forested areas frequently exploited by criminal elements. Tinubu also ordered the specialised unit to intensify efforts to secure the safe release of the abducted pupils and teachers.
Addressing residents in English and Yoruba, the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, who led the delegation, said Tinubu was “deeply troubled” by the 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,” Gbajabiamila stated.
Other members of the delegation included the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu; Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; and the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.
The delegation also informed community leaders and lawmakers that their request for the establishment of a military base in the area had been transmitted to the President for consideration and approval.
Gbajabiamila assured parents that the rescue operation would be intelligence-led and carefully coordinated, deploying both kinetic and non-kinetic measures. “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,” he said.
The abduction, which occurred 16 days before the visit, triggered widespread concern and an indefinite strike by the Nigeria Union of Teachers in Oyo State.
