Breaking: Tinubu Expands Nigerian Army to 12 Divisions, Approves Recruitment of 28,000 Personnel
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a major expansion of the Nigerian Army, increasing its operational structure from eight to 12 divisions and authorising the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel to bolster the country’s fight against insecurity.
The approval was announced on Thursday in a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, who said the move is aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture and enhancing the Army’s operational effectiveness. �
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According to the Presidency, the expansion is part of the administration’s broader investment in the Armed Forces, which includes the acquisition of critical military platforms and equipment, improved troop welfare, and continued support for operational readiness and force modernisation. �
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Under the new structure, the Nigerian Army will operate 12 divisions strategically spread across the country. Four new divisions will be established in:
Makurdi (Benue State)
Ilorin (Kwara State)
Jalingo (Taraba State)
Benin City (Edo State)
The Presidency said the additional divisions will improve command and control, decentralise operational decision-making, strengthen border security, protect critical national infrastructure, and enhance counter-insurgency operations across Nigeria. �
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Implementation will be carried out in two phases. The first phase, covering the establishment of the divisions in Makurdi, Ilorin and Jalingo alongside the reorganisation of existing formations, is expected to be completed by September 2026, while the second phase, including the Benin City division, will be concluded by December 2026. �
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President Tinubu also commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shuaibu, and officers and men of the Nigerian Army for their dedication and sacrifices in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to equipping the Armed Forces to confront the country’s evolving security challenges.

Meanwhile, in a separate development, an Enugu Air aircraft experienced a runway excursion after landing at Benin Airport. Authorities have commenced an investigation, and there were no immediate reports of fatalities. �
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