Former Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Lucky Irabor (retd.), has thrown his weight behind President Bola Tinubu’s decision to expand the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions, describing the move as a significant step toward strengthening the nation’s security architecture amid evolving security challenges.
Irabor made the remarks on Wednesday during an interview on Arise Television’s Morning Show, where he commended the Federal Government’s initiative but stressed that the success of the expansion would depend on sustained investment in personnel, equipment, logistics and operational support.
His comments followed the Nigerian Army’s announcement of the appointment of four new General Officers Commanding after President Tinubu approved the establishment of four additional divisions as part of ongoing efforts to reposition the military and enhance its capacity to address security threats across the country.
The newly approved divisions are the 5 Division, Makurdi; 9 Division, Ilorin; 10 Division, Jalingo; and 83 Division, Benin City. According to the Army, while the first three divisions are set to commence operations, the 83 Division in Benin City will become operational later in the year.
In addition to the creation of the new divisions, the Nigerian Army also announced the activation of three new brigades to improve operational readiness and ensure quicker response to security challenges in different parts of the country.
Reacting to the development, Irabor described the expansion as a strategic decision capable of improving the Army’s effectiveness, provided it is backed by adequate funding and proper implementation.
“Expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight divisions to 12 divisions is the right step in the right direction,” the retired General stated during the interview.
He explained that while increasing the number of military formations is important, the effectiveness of the new divisions would largely depend on the availability of trained personnel, modern weapons, communication systems, transportation assets and logistical support.
According to him, establishing new divisions is only the beginning of a broader process that requires careful planning and long-term commitment to ensure that the formations can effectively carry out their operational responsibilities.
Irabor noted that each military division requires a substantial number of officers and soldiers, as well as specialized equipment and infrastructure to function efficiently. He added that without these essential resources, the objectives of the expansion may not be fully realized.
He further emphasized the importance of strengthening command structures, improving intelligence gathering and ensuring seamless coordination among the various branches of the armed forces and other security agencies.
The former defence chief also highlighted the need for continuous recruitment and training of military personnel to meet the manpower demands that will arise from the establishment of the additional divisions.
Security analysts have observed that the expansion comes at a time when Nigeria continues to grapple with multiple security threats, including insurgency in the North-East, banditry in parts of the North-West, kidnapping, communal clashes, armed robbery and other forms of criminality affecting different regions of the country.
Many believe that increasing the number of divisions could improve troop deployment, enhance command and control, reduce response time to emergencies and strengthen the military’s presence in strategic locations.
The establishment of the new divisions is also expected to ease operational pressure on existing formations by decentralizing command responsibilities and enabling more focused military operations across various theatres.
Military observers say locating the new divisions in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo and Benin City reflects the government’s intention to improve security coverage in areas facing diverse security concerns while positioning troops closer to potential flashpoints.
The activation of three additional brigades is equally seen as a complementary measure designed to reinforce the Army’s operational capabilities and provide greater flexibility in responding to emerging threats.
Since assuming office, the Tinubu administration has repeatedly pledged to strengthen Nigeria’s security institutions through increased funding, acquisition of modern military hardware, enhanced intelligence coordination and improved welfare for security personnel.
The latest restructuring of the Nigerian Army is regarded as part of those broader efforts aimed at building a more responsive and effective military capable of addressing the country’s complex security environment.
Irabor maintained that while the creation of four new divisions is commendable, sustained political will, adequate budgetary allocations and consistent investment in training, logistics and technology will ultimately determine the success of the initiative.
He stressed that building a stronger military is not merely about expanding organizational structures but ensuring that every formation is properly equipped and adequately staffed to carry out its constitutional responsibilities.
As Nigeria continues to confront a wide range of security challenges, stakeholders believe the Army’s expansion represents a significant milestone in the country’s defence strategy.
However, they agree with Irabor that the long-term effectiveness of the new formations will depend on sustained investment, strategic planning and continued support from the Federal Government.
