President Bola Tinubu has approved the expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions and authorised the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel as part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.
The approval was announced in a State House press release issued on Thursday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
According to the Presidency, the expansion is aimed at improving the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Army and enhancing the country’s ability to respond to security threats.
“This approval underscores the President’s unwavering commitment to equipping the Armed Forces to address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges effectively and to strengthen national defence capabilities further,” the statement said.
The Presidency said the expansion builds on the administration’s continued investment in the Armed Forces, including the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel, the acquisition of military platforms and equipment, improved troop welfare and support for force modernisation.
Under the new structure, the Nigerian Army will operate 12 divisions across the country. Four new divisions will be established in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo and Benin City.
According to the statement, the new formations will “significantly improve command and control, decentralise operational decision-making, strengthen border security, enhance the protection of critical national infrastructure, improve counter-insurgency and internal security operations, and ensure faster military response to emerging threats nationwide.”
The implementation will be carried out in two phases. The first phase, covering the establishment of the 5, 9 and 10 Divisions and the reorganisation of existing formations, is expected to be completed by September 2026. The second phase, which includes the establishment of the 83 Division and further reorganisation, is scheduled for completion by December 2026.
President Tinubu also commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Ibrahim Shuaibu, as well as officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army for their service.
The statement said the President praised their “dedication, professionalism, and steadfast commitment to defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.”
Tinubu also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the military.
“The President reaffirmed his Administration’s determination to continue investing in the Armed Forces, ensuring they remain adequately equipped, highly motivated, and fully capable of protecting the nation and guaranteeing the safety and security of all Nigerians,” the statement added.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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