Tinubu restructures Nigerian Army, creates four new divisions to make 12

President Bola Tinubu has initiated a significant restructuring of the Nigerian Army, expanding its divisional structure from eight to twelve. This move is designed to bolster Nigeria's security architecture and enhance the operational capabilities of the army. The expansion reflects the president's commitment to equipping the armed forces to tackle the nation's evolving security challenges and strengthen national defense. This initiative builds upon previous investments, including the approval for recruiting 28,000 additional personnel and acquiring essential military equipment. The reorganized army will feature twelve divisions strategically located throughout the country. New divisions in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo, and Benin City are expected to improve command and control, decentralize decision-making, bolster border security, protect critical infrastructure, and speed up responses to emerging threats. The implementation will occur in two phases, with the first phase, including the establishment of three new divisions and reorganization of existing formations, set for completion by September 2026. The second phase, involving the establishment of the 83rd Division and further reorganization, is slated for completion by December 2026. President Tinubu praised the Chief of Army Staff and all army personnel for their dedication and commitment to defending Nigeria's sovereignty.

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This approval underscores the president’s unwavering commitment to equipping the Armed Forces to address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges effectively and to strengthen national defence capabilities further.