Tinubu expands Army to 12 divisions, approves 28,000 recruits

President Bola Tinubu has sanctioned a significant expansion of the Nigerian Army, increasing its divisional structure from eight to 12 and approving the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel. This strategic move is designed to decentralize command, reinforce border security, and improve the military's responsiveness to evolving threats across the nation.

The expansion will introduce four new divisional headquarters located in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo, and Benin City. The newly structured 12-division army will see specific headquarters assigned to various regions, aiming for more localized command and control. For instance, the 1st Division Headquarters will cover Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, and Jigawa states, while the 2nd Division Headquarters in Ibadan will oversee Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, and Ondo states.

According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, these new commands are expected to significantly enhance operational decision-making and counter-insurgency efforts. The implementation plan is divided into two phases, with the first phase focusing on establishing the 5th, 9th, and 10th Divisions and reorganizing existing formations by September 2026. The second phase, including the establishment of the 83rd Division, is slated for completion by December 2026.

This expansion is part of a broader security investment strategy that includes acquiring critical military platforms and equipment, improving troop welfare, and modernizing the force. President Tinubu commended the Chief of Army Staff and all officers and soldiers for their dedication amidst these efforts to strengthen Nigeria's security architecture.