President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved a major restructuring of the Nigerian Army, expanding its operational structure from eight to 12 divisions and authorising the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel to strengthen Nigeria’s security architecture.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions as part of efforts to enhance the country’s capacity to combat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other security threats.
The Presidency announced on Thursday that the President also approved the recruitment of 28,000 additional military personnel, describing the move as one of the most significant military restructuring initiatives in recent years.
Four New Army Divisions to Be Created
According to a statement issued by the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the expansion will create four additional divisions, increasing the Army’s operational strength from eight to twelve divisions strategically located across the country.
The Presidency said the restructuring is aimed at improving operational effectiveness, enhancing rapid response capabilities and strengthening Nigeria’s defence against emerging security threats.
Implementation in Two Phases
The Presidency disclosed that the restructuring will be implemented in two phases.
Under the first phase, new formations will be established while some existing formations will be reorganised. This phase is expected to be completed by September 2026.
The second phase, which includes the establishment of another division and additional restructuring, is scheduled for completion by December 2026.
28,000 Additional Personnel Approved
Beyond the structural expansion, Tinubu also authorised the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel into the Nigerian Army.
According to the Presidency, the new recruitment forms part of broader efforts to modernise the Armed Forces through improved manpower, acquisition of military platforms and equipment, enhanced troop welfare and greater operational readiness.
Officials said the initiative is intended to strengthen the Army’s ability to respond to multiple security challenges across different regions of the country.
Part of Broader Security Reforms
The approval comes as Nigeria continues to battle insurgency in the North-East, banditry in the North-West and North-Central, oil theft in the Niger Delta and violent crimes in other parts of the country.
The Tinubu administration has repeatedly stated that improving military capacity remains central to its national security strategy. Recent investments have included procurement of military hardware, increased funding for security agencies and measures to improve personnel welfare.