The Arewa Think Tank (ATT) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the recruitment of 1,000 forest guards in Oyo State and authorising the deployment of a specialised security team to rescue abducted pupils and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area, describing the move as a strong demonstration of leadership and commitment to national security.
In a statement issued by its Convener, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, the group said the President’s swift response has reinforced public confidence in the Federal Government’s determination to tackle insecurity across the country.

Yakubu said the approval of forest guards represents a timely and strategic intervention to address growing security threats in rural communities and forested areas often exploited by criminal elements.
“The approval of 1,000 forest guards by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a timely and strategic response to the growing security concerns in many parts of the country. It shows that the President is listening to Nigerians and taking concrete steps to protect lives and property,” he said.

He noted that the initiative would strengthen intelligence gathering and surveillance in forests that have become hideouts for kidnappers and bandits, adding that the measure would help deny criminals safe havens.
Yakubu also commended the deployment of a specialised rescue team to secure the safe return of abducted pupils and teachers, describing it as a reassuring sign of government responsiveness.

“Nothing is more reassuring than having a President who responds swiftly when lives are threatened. The deployment of a specialised rescue team shows that this administration prioritises the safety of every Nigerian child and teacher,” he said.
He further praised the proposed establishment of a military base in affected communities, describing it as a proactive and people-centred security measure.

According to him, the presence of top security officials, including the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, the National Security Adviser, the Inspector-General of Police, and the Minister of Defence, underscores the seriousness of the Federal Government’s response.
Yakubu added that the forest guard initiative aligns with long-standing calls by security experts for community-based policing structures to complement conventional security agencies.

He called on state governments and community leaders to collaborate with the Federal Government to ensure the success of the programme, stressing that security requires collective responsibility.
“Security is a collective responsibility. All stakeholders must work together to ensure the success of this initiative. The fight against insecurity requires unity, vigilance, and sustained commitment,” he said.

The ATT urged Nigerians to continue supporting ongoing security reforms, expressing optimism that the administration’s efforts would yield positive results in restoring peace and stability.
Yakubu also urged Nigerians to remain vigilant against attempts to politicise insecurity, warning that criminal incidents should not be exploited for political gain ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He maintained that while security agencies have recorded gains against criminal groups, there is a need to guard against narratives that could undermine public confidence in national institutions.