President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the deployment of 1,000 forest guards to strengthen security in Oyo State following the recent abduction of pupils and teachers, while also directing security agencies to intensify efforts to secure the victims’ safe release.

The directive was conveyed during a visit by a high-powered federal delegation led by the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, to Oyo State in the aftermath of the school kidnapping incident that has generated widespread concern across the country.

According to reports, the President ordered a renewed security push aimed at locating and rescuing the abducted pupils and teachers, stressing that the safety of citizens remains a top priority of the Federal Government.

The approval of the forest guards forms part of broader efforts to strengthen surveillance and security within forests and rural communities that have increasingly become hideouts for criminal groups involved in kidnappings and other violent crimes.

Members of the federal delegation reportedly met with state authorities, security agencies, and community stakeholders to assess the situation and coordinate strategies for improving security in affected areas.

The school abduction has heightened concerns over the vulnerability of educational institutions and rural communities to attacks by armed groups. It has also renewed calls for stronger security measures to protect students, teachers, and residents from criminal activities.

Government officials have assured the public that security agencies are actively pursuing the perpetrators and exploring all available options to secure the release of the victims.

The latest intervention comes amid ongoing efforts by both federal and state authorities to tackle kidnapping, banditry, and other security challenges affecting various parts of the country.

As of the time of filing this report, rescue operations were still ongoing, while authorities expressed optimism that intensified security measures would yield positive results.