MoRGANABLE News/security& justice
The initiative is also expected to be complemented by the planned recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel, alongside improvements in logistics, equipment and welfare packages for troops.
KaNo—
The Nigerian Army has begun moves to operationalise four newly created divisions as part of a sweeping restructuring effort aimed at expanding its operational capacity and strengthening the fight against insecurity across the country.
The expansion, approved by President Bola Tinubu, will increase the number of Army divisions from eight to 12, with new division headquarters to be located in Benue, Kwara, Taraba and Edo states.
The move is designed to decentralise command structures, improve coordination and enhance rapid response to security threats in various regions.
Military authorities say the restructuring is a critical component of broader reforms intended to reposition the Army to better tackle persistent security challenges, including banditry, terrorism, kidnapping and communal conflicts that have continued to affect several parts of the country.
Army To Recruit 28,000 Personnel
The initiative is also expected to be complemented by the planned recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel, alongside improvements in logistics, equipment and welfare packages for troops.
Analysts say these measures could significantly boost morale and operational effectiveness if fully implemented.
The move follows rising security concerns in parts of Kwara South and Kwara North, where incidents of kidnapping and banditry have been reported in recent months.
An exclusive check indicates that the battalion comprises close to 500 personnel, including senior officers.
The Federal Government Girls College, Omu-Aran, is believed to be serving as a temporary base for the troops, although military authorities have yet to officially confirm the location.
Plans are also underway to deploy another battalion to the Patigi axis, further strengthening the Army’s presence across the state.
Kwara State Govt Welcomes Deployment
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq welcomed the deployment, describing it as a significant boost to the state’s security architecture.
In a statement shared on his official social media platform, the governor expressed confidence that the presence of the troops would enhance ongoing efforts to maintain peace and stability.
“It was pleasant to welcome the troops to Kwara State. I thank the Chief of Army Staff for the swift deployment,” he said.
“I am confident that this new deployment will boost our peace and security efforts in the state.”he added.
He also disclosed that preparations were ongoing for the deployment of another battalion to Patigi, noting that teams were already working to identify a suitable location for the base.
The Olomu of Omu-Aran, Oba AbdulRaheem Adeoti, assured the troops of the community’s support, pledging cooperation to ensure the success of their operations.
Similarly, the Chairman of Irepodun Local Government Area, Abdulazeez Yakub, said the council would provide necessary assistance to the military.
The Commander of the 22 Armoured Brigade, Brigadier General Nicholas Rume, explained that the deployment was part of the Federal Government’s directive to expand the Army’s operational footprint nationwide.
“The Chief of Army Staff, in line with his strategic vision, has deployed this battalion to address security challenges across Kwara South,” he said.
Benue Set To Establish 5th Division
In Benue State, preparations are ongoing for the establishment of the new 5 Division, which is expected to be headquartered in Makurdi.
An Army implementation committee has been conducting assessments across the state to determine suitable locations for the new formations.
Governor Hyacinth Alia, through his Chief Press Secretary, Kula Tersoo, confirmed that the committee had briefed him on the Federal Government’s plans and was currently carrying out consultations with relevant stakeholders.
Local government officials in the state have also acknowledged the visits by the Army team. The Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Area, Maxwell Ogiri, said plans were underway to establish a Brigade Command in the area, noting that land had already been allocated for the project.
Similarly, the Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area, Melvin Ejeh, expressed optimism that the new military formations would help address security challenges in Benue South and neighbouring communities.
Arrangement Ongoing In Taraba
In Taraba State, arrangements are in progress for the operational take-off of the newly established 10 Division. Construction of its permanent barracks is currently underway at Yali, on the outskirts of Jalingo.
Governor Agbu Kefas, who recently inspected the project site, expressed satisfaction with the pace of work and commended the Federal Government for approving the new division.
Although troops have yet to be deployed to the new division, officials say it will initially operate from a temporary base pending the completion of permanent facilities.
Security experts say the establishment of additional divisions could significantly improve the Army’s ability to respond to threats by bringing command structures closer to affected areas.
They note that decentralisation of military operations often leads to quicker decision-making and more effective coordination among units, particularly in regions facing complex security challenges.
However, some analysts caution that the success of the initiative will depend largely on sustained funding, proper equipment and continuous training of personnel.
They also emphasise the importance of collaboration between the military, local communities and other security agencies to ensure long-term stability.
The creation of the new divisions is seen as a key part of this strategy, reflecting a renewed focus on strengthening the country’s security architecture.
As preparations continue across the affected states, stakeholders remain hopeful that the expanded military presence will lead to improved safety, greater public confidence and a more secure environment for economic activities to thrive.
