Abuja – 24 July 2026
Former Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Tukur Yusufu Buratai (Rtd), CFR, has commended His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Federal Republic of Nigeria for approving the expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to twelve divisions and the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel.
General Buratai described the development as historic and strategically significant, noting that the new divisional structure ensures balanced national coverage and enhances operational effectiveness across all geopolitical zones.
He also praised the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for his visionary leadership and professionalism in driving the expansion, which reflects a deep understanding of contemporary security dynamics.
While welcoming the expansion, General Buratai urged the military high command to expand its capabilities in missile warfare, drone warfare, cyber operations, and information warfare—in line with evolving global security threats and future warfare dynamics.
He called on all officers and soldiers to support the initiative with discipline and dedication, emphasising that the expansion would strengthen national defence, improve troop welfare, and enhance rapid response to emerging threats across the country.
“May this expansion bring lasting peace and security to every Nigerian,” he concluded.
