President Bola Tinubu has approved the expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s security architecture and improve military operations.
The approval also includes the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel to boost the Army’s manpower amid ongoing security challenges across the country.
According to a statement issued on Thursday by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the expansion is aimed at improving command and control, enhancing border security, protecting critical national infrastructure and strengthening counter-insurgency and other internal security operations.
Under the new arrangement, four additional divisions will be established in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo and Benin City, while existing formations will be reorganised to improve operational efficiency nationwide.
The statement said the implementation would be carried out in two phases. The first phase, involving 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 restructuring, is scheduled for completion by December 2026.
President Tinubu said the expansion reflects his administration’s commitment to strengthening the Armed Forces and improving national security.
He 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 and dedication to protecting the country’s sovereignty.
