President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards, including the deployment of specialized security unit with advanced rescue capabilities, for search and rescue operations in Oyo State.

They are to secure the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area from the captivity of bandits in the forest.

According to the President, "...following the visit of a high-level Federal Government delegation that I sent to the Esiele and ... communities in Oriire Local Government Area Of Oyo State, I have approved the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in collaboration with the Oyo State Government.

"I have also directed the deployment of a specialized security unit with advanced rescue capabilities to intensify efforts to secure the safe return of the abducted pupils and teachers..."

The President maintained that the rescue efforts will be intelligence-led, careful, coordinated, and sustained.