Tinubu Approves Nigerian Army Expansion to 12 Divisions, 28,000 New Recruits

President Bola Tinubu has approved a major restructuring of the Nigerian Army that will increase its divisional structure and add tens of thousands of personnel to its ranks. The authorization expands the military from its current eight divisions to a total of 12 divisions and includes the recruitment of 28,000 additional service members.

Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga announced the decision on Thursday, describing it as part of the administration's effort to bolster the country's defence infrastructure. The expansion is framed as a response to Nigeria's ongoing security challenges across multiple regions.

According to government statements, the increased division count and enlarged personnel base will enable the Army to improve its operational coordination and response capacity to threats including terrorism, banditry, and kidnapping. The restructuring aims to distribute military resources more effectively across Nigerian territory and enhance the armed forces' overall capability to manage security operations.

Onanuga characterized the approval as evidence of Tinubu's commitment to strengthening the armed forces against evolving threats facing the nation. The government maintains that the expansion will allow the Army to operate with greater effectiveness and maintain a stronger defensive posture.

The decision reflects ongoing government prioritization of security sector modernization and force development as part of its broader governance agenda. The recruitment process and timeline for establishing the four additional divisions have not been detailed in official announcements.

The 28,000 new personnel represents a significant addition to current Army strength, though exact current force numbers were not specified in the government's disclosure. Implementation of the expansion will require coordination across military administration and defence budgeting structures.