FIC Report (Oyo State) – In the wake of the Friday 15th, May 2026’s abduction of over 40 pupils, students and some of their teachers from three schools in the Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, today announced that his government has approved the immediate recruitment of 1,000 forest guards for deployment across forest reserves in Oyo.
The development was announced on Sunday by the President’s Chief of Staff, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, during a visit to Ahoro Esiele community in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo on behalf of President Tinubu.
This approval forms part of the Federal Government’s broader strategy to internal security, combat criminal activities in forested areas, and safeguard communities vulnerable to attacks by kidnappers and other criminal elements.
While announcing the new security development for the areas, Gbajabiamila conveyed the President’s message of solidarity and reassurance to residents, stressing that the administration remains committed to restoring peace and ensuring the safety of citizens in every part of the country.
The high-powered federal delegation included the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu; the Inspector-General of Police, Tunji Disu; the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa; and the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare.
The team’s visit to the community was following the recent security challenges in the area. The delegation conveyed President Tinubu’s deep concern over the incident, as well as his determination to secure the safe return of affected victims and prevent future occurrences.
Beyond the recruitment of forest guards, the Federal Government also assured residents that their request regarding the location of a military post within the area would receive prompt consideration as part of ongoing efforts to improve security architecture and response capabilities.
The approval of 1,000 forest guards underscores the Tinubu administration’s commitment to proactive security measures and community protection. The forest guards are expected to complement existing security agencies by providing surveillance, intelligence gathering, and rapid response capabilities within forest reserves that have increasingly become hideouts for criminal elements.
Since assuming office, President Tinubu has consistently prioritised security sector reforms, improved inter-agency collaboration and enhanced operational capacity for security forces across the country.
The latest government’s actions in Oyo reflect the administration’s resolve to ensure that no community is left behind in the ongoing effort to secure Nigeria, protect livelihoods, and create an environment conducive to economic growth and national development.
Report by Arogbonlo Israel, anipr(I&PR II). Edited by Moses Oyelade, AD(I&PR). FIC, Ibadan.
