New Army Divisions Will Strengthen Counterterrorism Efforts, NGF Tells Tinubu

By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the creation of four new divisions of the Nigerian Army, saying the move will significantly strengthen the country’s counterterrorism and anti-banditry operations.

The position of the forum was contained in a statement issued on Friday, 24 July, 2026 and personally signed by its Chairman and Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. 

The Governors described the decision as the largest single expansion of the Nigerian Army in modern history, noting that it reflects the President’s commitment to protecting lives and property across the country.

The NGF also welcomed the President’s approval for the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel into the Nigerian Army, alongside the acquisition of critical military assets to boost the nation’s security architecture.

According to the Forum, the combined measures will enhance the operational capacity of the military and strengthen ongoing efforts to combat terrorism, banditry and other forms of criminality.

The Governors expressed confidence that the expansion of the Army’s structure and manpower would improve the ability of security agencies to respond more effectively to emerging security threats in different parts of the country.

They described the establishment of the four new divisions as a bold and strategic intervention capable of reinforcing the military’s presence and operational efficiency nationwide.

The Forum further pledged its continued support and collaboration with President Tinubu on national security and other issues critical to the country’s development.

It also called on Nigerians to complement the efforts of the government and security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence that would assist security operations.

The Governors stressed that improved cooperation between citizens and security agencies remains essential to strengthening security across the country and sustaining ongoing efforts to restore peace in affected communities.