Tinubu Expands Nigerian Army to 12 Divisions

President Bola Tinubu approved the expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions and the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel to strengthen the nation's security architecture. The initiative aims to address Boko Haram insurgency, armed banditry, mass kidnappings, and separatist unrest following a nationwide security emergency declared by the president in November.

The restructuring establishes four new divisions in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo, and Benin City. Implementation is divided into two phases: the 5th, 9th, and 10th divisions are slated for completion by September 2026, while the 83rd division in Benin City is expected by December 2026. These measures intend to decentralize operational decision-making and accelerate military responses to emerging threats.

This military surge includes increased investment in force modernization and equipment. To improve troop welfare, the government doubled the minimum wage for the lowest-paid troops to 100,000 naira. This expansion coincides with a separate recruitment drive for 50,000 police officers. President Tinubu also commended Chief of Army Staff Waidi Shuaibu for his professionalism and dedication to defending the nation.