The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, has assured that the Nigerian Army will soon operationalise its newly established 83 Division in Benin City, Edo State, as part of efforts to strengthen military presence and enhance security operations across the country.
Shaibu gave the assurance on Thursday during a courtesy visit to Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, at the Government House, Benin City.
The Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele, disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja.
The COAS explained that the establishment of the 83 Division was part of the Nigerian Army’s ongoing expansion programme, which would increase its divisional structure from eight to 12 divisions.
According to him, the expansion is designed to improve military presence, command and control, as well as enhance the Army’s capacity for rapid response to emerging security threats.
He noted that the operationalisation of the division would significantly strengthen security operations in Edo State and the wider South-South region.
Shaibu said his visit to Edo was also aimed at assessing operational activities at Headquarters 4 Brigade and commissioning key Army projects.
The projects include the Affordable Home Ownership Option for Soldiers (AHOOAS) and civil-military cooperation initiatives designed to improve personnel welfare and strengthen relationships between the military and host communities.
He added that the initiatives were part of the Army’s broader commitment to enhancing operational effectiveness while addressing the welfare needs of its personnel.
In his response, Governor Okpebholo commended the Nigerian Army for its professionalism and sustained contributions to peace and security in Edo State.
The governor assured the COAS of his administration’s continued support and collaboration with the Nigerian Army to strengthen security and sustain stability across the state.
The planned operationalisation of 83 Division forms part of the Nigerian Army’s restructuring and expansion efforts to improve its operational capacity and respond more effectively to evolving security challenges across the country.
