President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State following the abduction of pupils and teachers from three schools in Esiele community, Oriire Local Government Area, on May 15, 2026.

A high-powered Federal Government delegation led by the President’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, visited Esiele and Yawota communities on Sunday to convey the President’s concern and reassure residents of ongoing efforts to secure the victims’ release.

The delegation, which included National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Defence Minister Christopher Musa, Minister of Power Joseph Tegbe, Deputy Inspector-General of Police Tunji Disu, and Presidential Adviser Sunday Dare, also pledged to forward the community’s request for a military base to the President for consideration.

Gbajabiamila said President Tinubu had directed a specialized security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts to rescue the abducted pupils and teachers.

“Mr. President is deeply troubled by this incident. Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely,” he said, assuring residents that the rescue operation would be intelligence-led and carefully coordinated.

The delegation also paid a condolence visit to the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, and met with Mrs. Mary Oyedokun, wife of the teacher killed during the attack. Gbajabiamila conveyed the President’s condolences and assured the family of government support.