President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards for Oyo State as part of an emergency security response to the abduction of pupils and teachers from schools in the Oriire Local Government Area.

The measure is designed to tighten surveillance across the state’s vast forest belts, which security analysts say have increasingly become hideouts for armed gangs involved in kidnappings, cattle rustling and banditry. The new forest guards are expected to work alongside the police, the military and local vigilante networks, providing intelligence and early-warning capabilities in hard-to-reach areas.

The decision was conveyed to residents of Esiele and Yawota communities by a high-powered federal government delegation that visited the area after the abduction of pupils and teachers from Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A. Primary School in Oriire.

The delegation was led by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, who met with traditional rulers, community leaders, parents and lawmakers. He said the federal government had taken note of local demands for a permanent security presence and would formally request the establishment of a military base in the axis for the President’s consideration.

Gbajabiamila disclosed that Tinubu had also ordered the deployment of a specialized security unit with advanced tracking and rescue capabilities to intensify the search for the abducted pupils and teachers. The unit, drawn from multiple security agencies, is expected to coordinate air and ground operations, supported by intelligence gathering and community informants.

He conveyed the President’s concern and sympathy to the affected families, stressing that the rescue mission would prioritize the safety of the victims.

“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,” Gbajabiamila told the gathering.