12-division Army structure will strengthen security operations nationwide — Tinubu
President Bola Tinubu on Thursday said the creation of four additional divisions of the Nigerian Army is aimed at improving the military’s ability to respond swiftly to security threats across the country, while assuring Nigerians that proposed state police would operate under safeguards to prevent abuse.
The President spoke at the State House, Abuja, while receiving traditional rulers from Oyo State under the auspices of the Oyo State Council of Obas, led by the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Oba Rashidi Ladoja.
Tinubu said the expansion of the Army from eight to 12 divisions would boost the military’s operational capacity and strengthen efforts to tackle insecurity.
He also commended the armed forces for the successful rescue of abducted schoolchildren and teachers in Oriire Local Government Area of Oyo State, attributing the operation to the professionalism of security personnel and the support of Nigerians.
“Congratulations on the Oriire rescue that succeeded. I think we succeeded with your support, prayers, and I agree with you that we should commend the men and women of the armed forces for their excellent performance,” the President said.
He disclosed that the Federal Government rejected demands by the kidnappers, including the release of detained gang members, insisting it would not negotiate with criminals.
“We refused to negotiate. These criminals wanted us to review the release from detention, members of their criminal gangs that were already arrested. That was one of their conditions, aside from the money they’re looking for. And I said, ‘no deal,’ we are not going to negotiate with criminals. They committed murder,” Tinubu said.
The President added that the security situation in neighbouring Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger Republic had compounded Nigeria’s security challenges, noting that some of those involved in criminal activities were foreigners.
On plans to establish state police, Tinubu assured that the proposed policing system would include mechanisms to prevent misuse.
