Posted by Chinenye on Thu 13th Aug, 2026 - tori.ng
The Nigerian Army is expanding from eight to 12 divisions as authorities move to strengthen security operations across several regions.
(Army Moves to Begin Operations. Photo by Premuim times)
The Nigerian Army has commenced operationalising four newly created divisions following President Bola Tinubu's approval to expand from eight to 12 divisions.
New division headquarters will be established in Benue, Kwara and Taraba states, with a fourth formation in Edo State.
The restructuring aims to decentralise command and control structures, improve tactical response times and enable more effective response to security threats across regions.
The initiative will be complemented by recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel and improved logistics, equipment and welfare packages for troops.
In Kwara State, rising security concerns prompted strengthened Army presence.
A new battalion comprising close to 500 personnel has been deployed to Omu-Aran, headquarters of Irepodun Local Government Area, with temporary location at Federal Government Girls College. Preparations are underway for another battalion deployment to Patigi.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq received the troops alongside military commanders and praised the Chief of Army Staff for swift deployment, expressing confidence the move would boost peace and security efforts.
He commended President Tinubu for approving additional deployments and improved welfare packages for soldiers.
Traditional rulers and community leaders welcomed the arrival, with the Olomu of Omu-Aran pledging full community support and the Irepodun Local Government chairman assuring cooperation.
The President of the Omu-Aran Development Association described the deployment as demonstrating Federal Government commitment to protecting lives and restoring peace and economic stability.
In Benue State, the new 5 Division with headquarters in Makurdi is intended to strengthen operations against communal clashes and armed groups affecting Benue and neighbouring Nasarawa and Kogi states.
An Army implementation committee is assessing locations for formations, with Guma, Ukum, Kwande, Otukpo and Agatu local government areas earmarked for military units.
The Otukpo Local Government chairman confirmed the committee's visit and announced plans for a new Brigade Command, noting the Army already holds 224 hectares at Entina for the proposed facility.
Agatu is expected to host a new battalion.
The Agatu chairman expressed optimism the formations would strengthen security and curb armed group activities.
In Taraba State, arrangements are underway for operational take-off of the newly established 10 Division, with permanent barracks under construction at Yali near Jalingo.
Governor Agbu Kefas inspected the proposed site on Wednesday, expressing satisfaction with progress and commending Tinubu's approval.
The state government pledged continued support for smooth take-off. Troops are yet to arrive but will initially operate from a temporary base.
The division is expected to reinforce counter-insurgency and border security operations in Taraba and neighbouring Adamawa State.
The 6 Brigade, currently headquartered in Jalingo, will eventually relocate in phases.
The restructuring is expected to bring command structures closer to areas facing security challenges, improve intelligence gathering, shorten emergency response times and provide additional manpower, equipment and logistical support to tackle terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and violent crimes across affected regions.