President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions and authorised the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s security architecture and enhance military operations nationwide.
The approval, announced by the Presidency, is aimed at improving the Army’s operational effectiveness, decentralising command structures, boosting border security, protecting critical national infrastructure, and enhancing counter-insurgency and internal security operations.
The expansion forms part of the Tinubu administration’s broader investment in the Armed Forces, which includes the acquisition of modern military equipment, improved troop welfare, and sustained support for operational readiness and force modernisation.
Under the new structure, four additional divisions will be established in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo, and Benin City, complementing the existing formations across the country.
According to the Presidency, implementation will be carried out in two phases. The first phase, covering the establishment of the 5, 9 and 10 Divisions and the reorganisation of existing formations, is expected to be completed by September 2026, while the second phase, involving the establishment of the 83 Division in Benin City, will be concluded by December 2026.
President Tinubu said the expansion reflects his administration’s commitment to equipping the Armed Forces to effectively tackle evolving security threats and safeguard Nigeria’s sovereignty.
The President also commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Ibrahim Shuaibu, as well as officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army for their professionalism and dedication to national service.
He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to continued investment in the military to ensure it remains well-equipped, highly motivated, and capable of protecting lives, property, and the nation’s territorial integrity.
