Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the establishment of the Nigerian Army’s 5 Division Headquarters in Makurdi, the state capital.
- +New army division will improve response to security threats – Benue gov
He described the move as a major boost to the country’s security architecture and ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity in the North-Central region.
He described the move as a major boost to the country’s security architecture and ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity in the North-Central region.
Alia, in a statement issued on Thursday by his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Tersoo Kula, said the approval, which forms part of the Nigerian Army’s expansion from eight to 12 divisions nationwide, reflects the President’s commitment to strengthening national security.
Recall that on Wednesday, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, approved the appointment of General Officers Commanding for newly established Nigerian Army divisions, as the military expands its command structure to strengthen operations nationwide.
Speaking in the statement the governor described the decision as “a timely intervention” that demonstrates President Tinubu’s “unwavering commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s security architecture and addressing the security challenges confronting the country.”
According to him, the establishment of the Makurdi Division, with operational responsibility covering Benue, Nasarawa and Kogi states, will significantly improve military operations 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,” Alia said.
The governor expressed optimism that the new military formation would complement his administration’s efforts to curb criminal activities and improve security in the state.
He said 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 also praised Tinubu for approving the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel into the Nigerian Army, as well as sustaining investments in military equipment, troop welfare and operational readiness.
He said 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.”
The governor further assured of his administration’s continued collaboration with the Federal Government and security agencies to achieve “lasting peace, security and sustainable development” in Benue State.
