Nigerian Army Creates New Divisions to Boost Security Operations

(Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu at The Graduation Ceremony of Soldiers. Photo Credit: Punch News)

Nigeria’s military has strengthened its combat operations through the creation of additional divisions, formations and units designed to enhance its response to the nation’s security needs.

The announcement came from the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Friday at a training graduation ceremony for soldiers who completed the Advanced Infantry Training Programme, known as Exercise RESTORE HOPE X, held at the Nigerian Army Training Centre in Kachia, Kaduna State.

The expansion was sanctioned by President Bola Tinubu, who authorized a broader restructuring of the armed forces aimed at bolstering operational effectiveness.

The newly established formations and units will be staffed largely by the graduating soldiers, who will serve as the foundation for these expanded capabilities.

In addressing the trainees, Shaibu emphasized the importance of maintaining professional standards, strict discipline and operational excellence as they assume their new posts.

He stressed the need for physical fitness, mental sharpness and technological competence, alongside the ability to adapt to emerging security threats, foster innovation and maintain compliance with rules of engagement and human rights protections throughout their service.

Exercise RESTORE HOPE X represents a cornerstone of the Nigerian Army’s post-basic infantry training structure, designed to develop combat skills, reinforce military discipline and prepare soldiers for modern warfare.

Major General Valentine Okoro, the Chief of Training, noted that the programme exposes participants to tactical scenarios, weapons proficiency, fieldcraft, endurance training, leadership instruction and counter-insurgency techniques.

Shaibu also acknowledged President Tinubu’s backing for the military’s operational, training and logistical needs, crediting his strategic direction and financial commitment as essential to the army’s ongoing transformation.

The ceremony concluded the latest chapter in the Nigerian Army’s initiative to build a more proficient force through enhanced training, personnel expansion and operational readiness.