By Aderogba George
The Centre for Peace, Transparency and Accountability (CPTA) has commended President Bola Tinubu and the Federal Government for expanding the Nigerian Army to 12 divisions.
The Executive Director of the centre, Mr Patrick Ogheneyero, made the commendation in a statement issued on Friday in Abuja.
Ogheneyero said the decision reflected the governmentโs commitment to strengthening Nigeriaโs security architecture and enhancing the operational capacity of the Armed Forces.
He said the expansion would improve operational efficiency, facilitate rapid deployment of troops, strengthen surveillance across the country and reinforce Nigeriaโs territorial integrity.
According to him, a stronger and better-equipped military is essential for maintaining national security, protecting lives and property, and creating an environment that supports economic growth and national development.
He urged the Federal Government to ensure adequate budgetary funding for the expansion, alongside the provision of modern military equipment and technology.
Ogheneyero also called for continuous professional training and retraining of personnel, improved welfare packages and the recruitment of additional qualified soldiers to meet the manpower needs of the expanded divisional structure.
He said the measures would ensure that the expansion resulted in greater operational effectiveness and improved national security.
The CPTA executive director also called for sustained collaboration among the Nigerian Army, other security agencies and local communities to strengthen intelligence gathering and coordinated responses to security threats.
He expressed confidence that the initiative would further enhance the Armyโs capacity to combat terrorism, banditry, kidnapping and other criminal activities, while safeguarding Nigeriaโs sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Ogheneyero reaffirmed the centreโs support for policies and initiatives that strengthen national security, promote peace and advance sustainable development.
He also urged Nigerians to continue supporting the Armed Forces in their responsibility to defend the nation and preserve its unity.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the Nigerian Army has recently been expanded from eight to 12 divisions as part of efforts to strengthen the countryโs security architecture and enhance operational effectiveness.
The expansion involves the creation of four new divisions, with formations to be established in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo and Benin City.
The Federal Government also approved the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel to support the expanded structure. (NAN)
Edited by Tosin Kolade