President Bola Tinubu has approved the expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions in a move aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture and improving the military’s ability to respond to emerging threats across the country.
The Presidency announced the decision on Thursday, saying the restructuring is part of the administration’s broader efforts to modernise the Armed Forces and enhance national defence.
According to a statement signed by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the expansion follows a series of investments in the military, including the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel, the acquisition of military platforms and equipment, improved troop welfare, and increased support for operational readiness.
The statement said the new force structure demonstrates President Tinubu’s commitment to equipping the Armed Forces to tackle Nigeria’s evolving security challenges.
“The establishment of the new Divisions in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo and Benin City 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 statement said.
Under the new arrangement, the Nigerian Army will operate 12 divisions spread across the country. Four new divisions will be established in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo and Benin City, while existing formations will be reorganised to improve operational efficiency.
The Presidency said implementation would take place in two phases. The first phase includes the establishment of the 5 Division in Makurdi, the 9 Division in Ilorin and the 10 Division in Jalingo, alongside the reorganisation of existing formations. The second phase will see the creation of the 83 Division in Benin City and further restructuring.
President Tinubu also praised the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu, and officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army for their commitment to national security.
“The officers and men of the Armed Forces and other security agencies are working tirelessly and making significant sacrifices to keep Nigerians safe,” the President said.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustained investment in the military, saying the Armed Forces would continue to receive the equipment, resources and welfare support needed to defend Nigeria’s sovereignty and protect citizens.
