Borno South senator says new divisions alone are not enough, urges Tinubu to boost military funding, deploy attack helicopters and improve soldiers’ welfare…….
Former Senate Leader and Senator representing Borno South, Ali Ndume, has welcomed President Bola Tinubu’s approval for the expansion of the Nigerian Army, describing the move as a positive step toward strengthening the country’s security framework.
The Federal Government recently approved the creation of four additional army divisions in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo and Benin City, increasing the total number of divisions from eight to 12. The plan also includes the recruitment of 28,000 new personnel to reinforce military operations nationwide.
Reacting to the development in a statement issued on Saturday, Ndume said the decision reflects the government’s commitment to improving national security but argued that expanding the Army’s structure must be matched with adequate funding, modern equipment and better welfare for personnel.
According to the lawmaker, the success of the expansion will depend not only on increasing troop numbers but also on ensuring soldiers have the tools and support needed to effectively combat insecurity.
He urged the Federal Government to establish Special Task Force Brigades within the newly created divisions and equip them with Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), and attack helicopters.
Ndume further proposed that every one of Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones should have at least five attack helicopters to enable rapid military response and provide air support for troops engaged in combat operations.
The senator emphasized that military effectiveness rests on what he described as the “TEAM” principle—Training, Equipment, Ammunition and Motivation.
While commending the planned recruitment of 28,000 additional soldiers, he maintained that personnel welfare remains a major concern, warning that low morale could undermine operational success if not urgently addressed.
He therefore called on President Tinubu’s administration to review the salaries and allowances of members of the Armed Forces and other security agencies, arguing that better remuneration would improve motivation and operational efficiency.
Ndume also suggested that the Federal Government should not hesitate to secure funding if necessary to adequately equip the military for the country’s security challenges.
Despite his concerns, the senator praised troops on the frontlines for their continued efforts against insurgents and other criminal elements, noting that recent military operations have produced encouraging results, particularly in the North-East.
He specifically commended troops of Operation Hadin Kai, including personnel of the 82 Task Force Brigade in Gwoza, Borno State, for their recent rescue of more than 100 kidnapped victims, adding that the brigade had earlier secured the freedom of about 360 other abductees during separate operations.
The lawmaker said the achievements demonstrate the dedication and resilience of Nigerian troops, stressing that greater investment in personnel and equipment would further strengthen the military’s ability to tackle insecurity across the country.
