…Move to Increase Security Capacity as Army Grows From Eight to 12 Divisions
By Our Correspondent
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a major expansion and restructuring of the Nigerian Army, increasing the number of Army divisions from eight to 12 as part of efforts to strengthen the nation’s security architecture.
The approval includes the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel, a move aimed at improving the Army’s manpower, operational readiness, and ability to respond more effectively to emerging security threats across the country.
The expansion is expected to enhance the military’s presence in strategic locations, improve coordination of operations, and support ongoing efforts to tackle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping, and other security challenges affecting communities across Nigeria.
Under the new arrangement, additional Army formations are expected to be created, bringing military command closer to areas that require stronger security coverage. The restructuring is also designed to improve response time and boost the effectiveness of troops deployed on internal security operations.
Security experts have described the move as a significant step toward modernising the Nigerian Army and ensuring that the country’s armed forces have the personnel and organisational structure needed to meet current and future security demands.
The recruitment of 28,000 new soldiers will provide fresh manpower for field operations while also creating opportunities for young Nigerians seeking to serve the country through the military.
The Federal Government said the expansion forms part of broader reforms aimed at strengthening national defence, protecting citizens, securing critical infrastructure, and improving stability across the country.
With the increase from eight to 12 divisions, the Nigerian Army is expected to enter a new phase of growth, with greater operational capacity and a stronger nationwide presence.
The initiative reflects the government’s commitment to investing in national security and equipping the military to better protect Nigeria’s territorial integrity and the safety of its citizens.
