President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State as part of efforts to improve security and accelerate the rescue of teachers and students abducted by gunmen.
The decision comes after the kidnapping of several pupils and school workers from three schools in Esiele and Yawota communities of Oriire Local Government Area.
The President also directed security agencies to strengthen rescue operations by deploying a specialised team with advanced capabilities to locate and safely recover the victims.
The announcement was made by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga after a Federal Government delegation visited the affected communities to assess the situation and reassure residents.
According to the statement, the newly approved forest guards will work closely with the Oyo State Government to improve surveillance and strengthen security across vulnerable areas.
Community leaders also renewed calls for a military base in the area. The delegation assured residents that the request would be forwarded to the President for consideration.
The Federal Government team was led by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila and included top security officials such as National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, senior police representatives, Defence Ministry officials, and presidential aides.
During meetings with community stakeholders, the delegation conveyed the President’s concern over the incident and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to bringing the victims home safely.
Gbajabiamila said the government was fully committed to securing the release of the abducted teachers and pupils and would provide all necessary support to security agencies involved in the operation.
He explained that rescue efforts would be carefully planned and guided by intelligence to minimise risks and increase the chances of a successful outcome.
The delegation also visited the palace of the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, where they expressed sympathy to the traditional ruler and members of the affected communities.
In addition, the officials met with the family of a teacher who lost his life during the attack and offered condolences on behalf of the Federal Government.
The latest security measures reflect growing efforts by the Federal Government to tackle insecurity in affected communities and ensure the safe return of all abducted victims.
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