Nigerian Army Expands Force Structure with New Divisions

The Nigerian Army has announced a significant expansion of its force structure, establishing four new divisions to enhance its operational capacity and response to evolving security challenges in Nigeria. This decision follows the approval of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, and authorization from President Bola Tinubu.

The newly created divisions include the 5 Division in Makurdi, responsible for Benue, Nasarawa, and Kogi states; the 9 Division in Ilorin, overseeing Kwara and Niger states; the 10 Division in Jalingo, covering Taraba and Adamawa states; and the 83 Division in Benin City, which will supervise Edo, Delta, and Bayelsa states. Major General Moses Gara, Major General Yakubu Yahaya, and Major General Chinedu Ralph Nnebeife have been appointed as commanders of the 5, 9, and 10 Divisions, respectively.

Additionally, three new brigades have been activated to reinforce operational effectiveness. Lieutenant General Shaibu emphasized that this expansion will improve command and control, accelerate troop deployment, and strengthen Nigeria's security framework.