Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has welcomed President Bola Tinubu’s approval of a new Nigerian Army division in Makurdi, saying the move will strengthen security efforts and improve the military’s ability to respond to threats across the North Central region.
In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, the governor said the creation of the division is part of the Federal Government’s broader plan to expand the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions, describing it as another step towards improving national security.
The approval comes shortly after the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, announced the appointment of General Officers Commanding for the newly established divisions as the military restructures its command system.
Alia described the approval as “a timely intervention” and said it reflects President Tinubu’s “unwavering commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture and addressing the security challenges confronting the country.”
He explained that the Makurdi-based division, which will cover Benue, Nasarawa and Kogi states, is expected to improve operational coordination, enable quicker deployment of troops and enhance the protection of lives and property in the region.
“The establishment of the Makurdi Division, with a focus on Benue, Nasarawa and Kogi, will significantly enhance military operations through improved command and control, faster response to security threats and stronger protection of lives and property across the North Central States,” he said.
The governor also expressed confidence that the new military command would complement his administration’s campaign against insecurity, particularly in farming communities that have experienced repeated attacks.
He added that the division “will reinforce ongoing efforts by his administration to combat criminality, protect farming communities and restore lasting peace to affected areas of the State that have continued to endure security challenges.”
Alia further praised the President for approving the recruitment of 28,000 additional soldiers and maintaining investment in military equipment, personnel welfare and operational capacity.
According to him, the measures “reflect the President’s determination to build a well-equipped and highly motivated Armed Forces capable of safeguarding Nigeria’s sovereignty and ensuring the security of all citizens.”
He also pledged his administration’s continued cooperation with the Federal Government and security agencies in pursuit of “lasting peace, security and sustainable development” across Benue State.
