President Bola Tinubu has approved a major restructuring of the Nigerian Army, increasing its formations from eight to 12 divisions and authorising the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel to strengthen national security.
The Presidency said the expansion is aimed at improving the Army’s operational effectiveness in tackling terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other emerging security threats across the country. It also builds on ongoing investments in military equipment, troop welfare, force modernisation and operational readiness.
Under the new arrangement, four divisions will be created in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo and Benin City. The new formations will oversee Benue, Nasarawa and Kogi; Kwara and Niger; Taraba and Adamawa; and Edo, Delta and Bayelsa states respectively.
The existing eight divisions will continue to operate across other parts of the country, giving the Nigerian Army a total of 12 divisions strategically positioned nationwide to strengthen security coverage.
According to presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga, the restructuring will improve command and control, decentralise operational decision-making, enhance border security, protect critical national infrastructure and enable quicker military responses to security incidents.
Implementation will take place in two phases. The first phase, covering the establishment of the 5, 9 and 10 divisions alongside the reorganisation of existing formations, is expected to be completed by September, while the second phase, including the 83 Division, is scheduled for completion by December.
President Tinubu commended Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant-General Waidi Shuaibu, officers and soldiers for their professionalism and dedication. He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ensuring the Armed Forces remain well-equipped, motivated and capable of defending Nigeria’s sovereignty and protecting citizens.
