Security Experts Back Tinubu’s Plan for New Military Formations Nationwide 

Security experts have endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s plan to establish new military formations across Nigeria. 

According to one of the experts, a retired Chief and a consultant specialising in Criminal Forensics and Character Checks, the move is a smart and historically grounded approach to tackling the ongoing insecurity in the country.

The police chief, who has worked with the Interpol Section at the Force CID in Alagbon, noted that this strategy mirrors actions taken by previous leaders to restore stability to areas facing turmoil.

He reminisced about the aftermath of the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), when then-Head of State General Yakubu Gowon had to deal with a surge in armed robberies and violent disputes fueled by leftover weapons from the conflict.

In response to these challenges, Gowon established special Armed Robbery Tribunals and set up military and police units in troubled regions like Orji River and Bende in Abia State.

“Tinubu’s decision isn’t unprecedented; it’s a continuation of strategies that have historically helped ease tensions and prevent retaliation,” Abisoye remarked.

He highlighted that creating new military formations in states such as Benue, Zamfara, and Niger is the “most logical step,” especially since violent clashes and banditry have persisted for over 15 years, despite the efforts of four previous presidents since 1999.

He also pointed out that opposition to such measures often stems from those with vested interests, including emergency contractors, political adversaries, and commentators who gain financially or politically from the chaos.

He encouraged the President to stay the course despite any backlash, emphasising that strong, decisive action from legitimate authorities is crucial for stabilising regions in crisis.

The Presidency has reiterated that expanding military bases is part of a comprehensive national security strategy.

While some critics warn of potential pushback, he remains confident that history demonstrates how robust security measures can pave the way for peace.

In the same vein, a former Police Public Relations Officer applauded the move as an additional security infrastructure that will strengthen the fight against insecurity.

According to him, the spread of formations will also curb the growth of militia groups in various parts of the country, just as an army officer believed the initiative will enhance the coverage of lands and areas, as well as bolster the present security measures.

“It will add more units and formations to the ones we have before, which will give room for the army to spread across many places.”

“It brings the army closer to the areas where there are security threats, accommodating more personnel,” he said.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has just given the green light for a significant expansion of the Nigerian Army, increasing its divisions from eight to twelve and bringing in 28,000 recruits.

This bold step is all about bolstering the nation’s security framework. The Presidency has stated that this initiative is designed to boost the Army’s operational effectiveness and enhance its ability to tackle Nigeria’s ever-changing security challenges.