President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, has approved the expansion of the Nigerian Army’s structure from eight to twelve divisions. This landmark decision aims to enhance the country’s security architecture and improve the operational effectiveness of the Nigerian Army.
The approval underscores President Tinubu’s unwavering commitment to equipping the Armed Forces to address Nigeria’s evolving security challenges and to further strengthen national defence capabilities. It builds on the Administration’s sustained investments in the Armed Forces, including the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel, acquisition of critical military platforms and equipment, improvements in troop welfare, and ongoing support for operational readiness and force modernisation.
The establishment of new divisions in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo, and Benin City will significantly improve command and control, decentralise operational decision-making, strengthen border security, enhance the protection of critical national infrastructure, improve counter-insurgency and internal security operations, and ensure faster military response to emerging threats nationwide.
Implementation of the new force structure will be executed in two phases. The first phase, covering the establishment of the 5, 9, and 10 Divisions and the reorganisation of existing formations, will be completed by September 2026. The second phase, involving the establishment of the 83 Division and further reorganisation, is expected to be completed by December 2026.
This strategic expansion reflects the Federal Government’s resolve to build a more robust, responsive, and professional military capable of safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and ensuring the safety of its citizens.