NGF backs 28,000 military recruitments, creation of four new Army divisions

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The Nigeria Governors’ Forum has endorsed President Bola Tinubu’s approval of four new Nigerian Army divisions, describing the move as a major boost to the country’s security architecture.

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The forum, in a statement signed by its Chairman and Governor of Kwara State, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, on Thursday, said the simultaneous creation of four new divisions represented the largest single expansion of the Nigerian Army in modern history.

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“The simultaneous creation of four new divisions is the largest single expansion of the Nigerian Army in modern history,” the statement read.

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The governors said the decision reflected the President’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property across the country.

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“The bold step shows the President’s renewed commitment to security of lives and property,” the forum added.

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The NGF also welcomed the approval for the recruitment of 28,000 additional military personnel and the acquisition of more military equipment, expressing confidence that the measures would strengthen ongoing efforts against terrorism and banditry.

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“We wholeheartedly welcome this development, including the president’s approval for the Army to hire 28,000 new personnel and acquire more critical military assets.

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“We are confident that this initiative will enhance the government’s counterterrorism and anti-banditry efforts,” the statement said.

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The forum pledged continued collaboration with the Federal Government on security and other national development priorities.

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“The Forum pledges its continued support for and collaboration with the President on national security and all other issues of national development,” it stated.

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The governors also urged Nigerians to support security agencies with credible and timely information to improve security across the country.

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“The Forum again urges citizens to continue to support government and security forces to strengthen security in every part of the country, including giving timely information to the security agencies,” the statement added.

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PUNCH Online had reported that President Tinubu approved the expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions and the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel as part of efforts to decentralise military command, improve border security and strengthen responses to emerging security threats nationwide.

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Under the new structure, new divisional headquarters will be established in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo and Benin City, with implementation expected to be completed in two phases between September and December 2026.

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