…hails Tinubu’s approval of army expansion

By Gift Chapi Odekina

The Nigeria Citizens Watch for Good Governance (NCWGG) has commended President Bola Tinubu for approving the expansion of the Nigerian Army to 12 divisions and the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel, describing the move as a major step towards strengthening the country’s security architecture.

The group said the decision would significantly boost the nation’s capacity to combat terrorism, banditry and other security threats while improving the morale and operational effectiveness of troops.

In a statement signed by its Director of Communications, Igwe Ude-Umanta, the NCWGG described the approval as “a historic and strategic masterstroke” that would redefine Nigeria’s security landscape.

According to the group, the President’s action demonstrates that the Renewed Hope Agenda is translating into concrete measures, particularly in the security sector.

“We state without equivocation that President Tinubu has once again demonstrated that the Renewed Hope Agenda is not a slogan. It is the fuel, the gear and the eight-wheel drive propelling every sector of this country, with the security sector occupying its pride of place as the topmost priority,” the statement read.

The organisation argued that the expansion aligns with Section 14(2)(b) of the 1999 Constitution, which provides that the security and welfare of the people shall be the primary purpose of government.

It added that increasing the Army’s strength and recruiting more personnel would enhance military operations across the country and reassure frontline troops of the government’s commitment to their welfare.

“This bold and gigantic step is a game changer. It is suffocation to the very oxygen of insecurity, a deadly venom to both the sponsors and the foot soldiers of terror. For our gallant troops who fight day and night, this expansion and the mass recruitment of fresh, capable hands are a thundering morale booster,” the group stated.

The NCWGG also commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Waidi Ibrahim Shuaibu, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede, describing them as “the twin pillars” driving ongoing reforms within the Armed Forces.

It said both military chiefs had demonstrated professionalism and visionary leadership in repositioning the nation’s security architecture.
“We pour an ocean of encomium, coupled with deep respect, admiration and full support, on the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Ibrahim Shuaibu, and the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Olatubosun Oluyede.

These two distinguished officers are the twin pillars under whose command this historic milestone is being achieved,” the statement added.

The group further cited the recent rescue of 44 schoolchildren and their teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State as evidence of improved operational efficiency and intelligence-driven military operations.

It also referenced what it described as commendation from United States President Donald Trump to President Tinubu over Nigeria’s counter-terrorism efforts, saying it reflected growing international recognition of the country’s security gains.

The NCWGG passed a vote of confidence on the nation’s military leadership and urged Nigerians to support ongoing security operations by remaining vigilant and providing timely information to security agencies.

“The security of this country is not a one-man show. It is a solemn responsibility that rests on every Nigerian. Every piece of information shared with the authorities, every suspicious movement reported and every act of community solidarity shrinks the operational space of the enemy,” the group said.

While urging President Tinubu to sustain investment in the Armed Forces, the organisation called for increased funding, deployment of modern military technology and improved welfare for personnel.

It also appealed to the National Assembly to continue providing legislative backing for measures aimed at strengthening the Armed Forces and enhancing the welfare of military personnel.

The group expressed optimism that the planned expansion of the Nigerian Army would contribute to lasting peace and improved national security.