Nigerian Army establishes four new divisions, names GOCs

The Nigerian Army is undergoing a significant reorganization with the establishment of four new divisions, a move approved by President Bola Tinubu. This expansion aims to broaden the Army's operational footprint, enhance command and control structures, and improve its ability to project force across the country.

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provide visionary leadership, sustain operational momentum and uphold the highest standards of professionalism, discipline and mission effectiveness in the discharge of their responsibilities.

Lt Gen Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff, has approved the appointment of new General Officers Commanding (GOCs) for these formations. Maj Gen Yakubu Yahaya will lead the 9 Division in Ilorin and also command Operation Savannah Shield. Maj Gen Chinedu Ralph Nnebeife is appointed GOC of the 10 Division in Jalingo, while Maj Gen Moses Gara will head the 5 Division in Makurdi, concurrently serving as Commander of Operation Whirl Stroke. Maj Gen Auwalu Mahmuda has been redeployed to lead the 2 Division in Ibadan.

In addition to the new divisions, three new brigades have been activated to bolster their capabilities. Brig Gen A.O. Odubiyi will command the 11 Brigade in Gboko, Brig Gen A.M. Haruna will lead the 29 Brigade in Kainji, and Brig Gen R.M. Aminu is posted to command the 10 Brigade in Lafia. According to a statement by Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col Appolonia Anele, these new divisions are expected to commence operations upon achieving Initial Operational Capability (IOC), with measures in place to progressively attain Full Operational Capability.

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safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Nigeria, protecting the lives and property of all law-abiding citizens and supporting the attainment of enduring national peace and security.

General Shaibu urged the newly appointed commanders to provide visionary leadership, maintain operational momentum, and uphold high standards of professionalism and discipline. He reaffirmed the Army's commitment to safeguarding Nigeria's sovereignty, territorial integrity, and the lives and property of citizens, while supporting national peace and security. He also expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for approving the expansion, calling it a "historic milestone" that reflects the government's dedication to strengthening the nation's defense architecture.

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a historic milestone in the transformation of the Nigerian Army