Ex-CDS backs Tinubu’s expansion of Army to 12 divisions

Former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor (retd.), has endorsed President Bola Tinubu's decision to expand the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions, calling it a crucial step forward for national security. Irabor, speaking on Arise Television's Morning Show, acknowledged that this significant move will necessitate substantial investment in troops, equipment, and logistical support.

His comments follow the Nigerian Army's announcement of four new General Officers Commanding, a direct result of President Tinubu's approval to establish four additional divisions. These new formations include the 5 Division in Makurdi, 9 Division in Ilorin, 10 Division in Jalingo, and the 83 Division in Benin City, with the latter expected to become operational later in the year. The Army has also activated three new brigades to enhance its operational capabilities nationwide.

“

Expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight divisions to 12 divisions is the right step in the right direction.

Irabor described the creation of these new divisions as a positive beginning, emphasizing that it addresses the military's identified shortcomings. He expressed optimism that similar improvements would extend to the Nigerian Navy and Air Force. "It’s quite heartwarming to know that the Commander-in-Chief himself is well abreast of the shortcomings of the military," Irabor stated, adding, "If he’s starting with the Army, perhaps that’s a good step. I believe that the Navy and the Air Force will be part of the efforts."

“

It’s quite heartwarming to know that the Commander-in-Chief himself is well abreast of the shortcomings of the military. If he’s starting with the Army, perhaps that’s a good step. I believe that the Navy and the Air Force will be part of the efforts.

However, the retired defense chief cautioned that the expansion carries wide-ranging implications and must be adequately resourced. He highlighted the need to bring the existing eight divisions up to standard in terms of personnel, equipment, and logistics. Irabor also commended the plan to recruit 28,000 additional soldiers, viewing it as a positive start, though he noted it represents just over one division's strength, indicating a need for further expansion.

Implementing the army's expansion will require considerable national resources. Irabor also called for a review of the military's role in internal security as part of broader efforts to strengthen the nation's defense architecture. The success of this expansion hinges not only on the increase in divisions but also on the comprehensive provision of necessary resources and strategic planning.

“

Increasing from eight divisions to 12 divisions has a lot of implications. First, the existing eight divisions must be properly brought up to scale in terms of personnel, equipment, logistics and so on. I want to believe that the President is well aware of the implications of all that.