President Bola Tinubu has approved the expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions. The move aims to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture and improve military operations across the country.
The approval forms part of the Federal Government’s efforts to modernise the Armed Forces. It also reflects the administration’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s growing security challenges.
The government recently approved the recruitment of 28,000 additional military personnel. It has also invested in new military equipment, improved troop welfare, and increased support for operational readiness.
Under the new structure, the Nigerian Army will operate 12 divisions across different parts of the country.
The divisions include the 1 Division in Kaduna, the 2 Division in Ibadan, the 3 Division in Jos, and the new 5 Division in Makurdi.
Other divisions include the 6 Division in Port Harcourt, the 7 Division in Maiduguri, the 8 Division in Sokoto, and the new 9 Division in Ilorin.
The Army will also maintain the new 10 Division in Jalingo, the 81 Division in Lagos, the 82 Division in Enugu, and the new 83 Division in Benin City.
According to the Presidency, the additional divisions will improve command and control across military formations. They will also speed up decision-making during operations.
Officials said the new structure will strengthen border security and improve the protection of critical national infrastructure. In addition, it will support counter-insurgency operations and improve responses to emerging security threats.
The Nigerian Army will implement the expansion in two phases.
The first phase covers the establishment of the 5, 9, and 10 Divisions. It also includes the reorganisation of existing formations. Authorities expect to complete this phase by September 2026.
The second phase will establish the 83 Division in Benin City. It will also complete the remaining organisational changes before December 2026.
President Tinubu praised the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Ibrahim Shuaibu, for his leadership. He also commended officers and soldiers for their professionalism and dedication to protecting Nigeria.
The President reaffirmed his commitment to investing in the Armed Forces. He said the government will continue to provide the equipment, resources, and support needed to defend the country’s sovereignty.
The expansion marks one of the most significant structural changes in the Nigerian Army in recent years. Government officials believe the new divisions will improve operational efficiency and strengthen national security across the country.
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