Thursday, July 23, 2026

Tinubu Approves Expansion of Nigerian Army to 12 Divisions, Orders Recruitment of 28,000 Personnel

Tinubu Approves Expansion of Nigerian Army to 12 Divisions, Orders Recruitment of 28,000 Personnel

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 and improve military operations nationwide.

The approval also includes the recruitment of 28,000 additional soldiers, acquisition of modern military equipment, and enhanced welfare for troops to boost the Armed Forces' operational readiness.

According to a statement by the President's Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the decision reflects the administration's commitment to tackling Nigeria's evolving security challenges and reinforcing national defence.

Four new divisions will be established in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo, and Benin City, improving command coordination, decentralising operational decision-making, strengthening border security, protecting critical national infrastructure, and ensuring faster responses to security threats.

The restructuring will be carried out in two phases. The first phase, covering the creation of the 5th, 9th, and 10th Divisions and the reorganisation of existing formations, is expected to be completed by September 2026. The second phase, which includes the establishment of the 83rd Division, is scheduled for completion by December 2026.

President Tinubu also praised the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Waidi Ibrahim Shuaibu, as well as officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army for their dedication and service to the nation.

Under the new structure, the Army's 12 divisions will be strategically positioned across the country to improve security operations and enhance the military's ability to respond swiftly to emerging threats.

0 Comment about the Post: