Tinubu Approves Expansion of Nigerian Army Divisions

President Bola Tinubu has approved a significant restructuring of the Nigerian Army, expanding its divisions from eight to twelve. This decision, announced by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga, aims to enhance the country's security architecture and operational effectiveness.

The expansion reflects Tinubu's commitment to equipping the Armed Forces to tackle Nigeria's evolving security challenges. The restructuring includes the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel and improvements in military equipment and troop welfare.

The new divisions will be strategically located across the country, with headquarters in Kaduna, Ibadan, Jos, Makurdi, Port Harcourt, Maiduguri, Sokoto, Ilorin, Jalingo, Lagos, Enugu, and Benin City. The establishment of new divisions in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo, and Benin City is expected to improve command and control, decentralize decision-making, and enhance border security.

The implementation will occur in two phases, with the first phase set for completion by September 2026 and the second by December 2026. Tinubu commended Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Ibrahim Shuaibu and the Army personnel for their dedication.