President Tinubu sent his top security team to Oyo State on Sunday. They visited communities hit by last month's school abductions.
Gunmen kidnapped pupils and teachers from three schools in Oriire Local Government Area on May 15. The raid targeted Community Grammar School, Baptist Nursery and Primary School, and L.A.
Primary School.
Tinubu has now approved hiring 1,000 forest guards across Oyo State. The recruitment will happen in partnership with the state government.
Community leaders asked for a military base in the area. The delegation promised to take their request to the President for his decision.
A specialized security unit with advanced rescue abilities will now lead efforts to free the hostages. The team has orders to intensify operations immediately.
Femi Gbajabiamila, the President's Chief of Staff, led the delegation. He brought along National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu and Police Inspector-General Tunji Rilwan Disu.
Defence Minister General Christopher Musa also made the trip. So did Presidential Spokesman Sunday Dare.
Gbajabiamila spoke to residents in both English and Yoruba. He said the President's decision to send Nigeria's top security leaders showed his commitment to freeing the victims.
"Mr. President is deeply troubled by this incident," Gbajabiamila told the crowd.
"Whatever it takes, our children and teachers will be brought back home safely."
According to him, the President has issued all necessary directives. Security agencies are getting full support to achieve their mission.
He acknowledged the pain families are experiencing right now. "By the grace of God, your children will return safely to your arms," he assured them.
Some parents had urged caution during any rescue operation. Gbajabiamila responded to their concerns directly.
"The operation will be intelligence-led and carefully coordinated," he noted. "We will use both kinetic and non-kinetic measures to secure the safe return of the victims."
Gbajabiamila also visited the palace of the Soun of Ogbomoso. The traditional ruler, HRM Kabiyesi Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, received the delegation.
The team also met with Mary Oyedokun and her children. Her husband, a teacher, died during the abductions.
Gbajabiamila delivered the President's sympathies to the family. He promised they would not be abandoned by government.
