Tinubu deploys special security unit, 1,000 forest guards to rescue abducted Ogbomoso pupils, teachers

President Bola Tinubu has ordered the deployment of a “specialised security unit with advanced rescue capabilities” and approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in a renewed effort to secure the release of pupils and teachers abducted from schools in Ogbomoso, Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

The directive comes as authorities intensify efforts to locate the victims, highlighting growing concerns over attacks on schools and communities in parts of Nigeria despite ongoing security operations.

In a statement issued on Sunday, Bayo Onanuga, the president’s special adviser on information and strategy, said the forest guards would be recruited in collaboration with the Oyo State Government to strengthen search-and-rescue operations and improve security coverage in forested areas around the affected communities.

According to the statement, a federal government delegation led by Femi Gbajabiamila, the president’s chief of staff, and Nuhu Ribadu, the national security adviser, visited Esiele and Yawota communities in Oriire LGA on Sunday to convey Tinubu’s directives to residents.

The delegation also included Tunji Disu, the inspector-general of police; Christopher Musa, chief of defence staff; and Sunday Dare, the president’s special adviser on media and public communications.

The move signals the federal government’s attempt to accelerate rescue efforts and reassure residents following the abduction, which has raised fresh concerns about the safety of schools and rural communities in the region.

Nigeria has witnessed repeated kidnappings targeting schools in recent years, prompting authorities to strengthen security measures and expand surveillance and rescue operations in vulnerable areas.