Tinubu Approves New Army Battalion for Kwara to Strengthen Security

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of a new Nigerian Army battalion in Omu-Aran, Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, in a move aimed at strengthening security operations across the state.

The approval was disclosed in a statement issued by the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to the Kwara State Governor, Mashood AbdulRafiu Agboola.

The new military formation is expected to increase the presence of security personnel and enhance operational capacity in parts of the state facing threats from banditry, kidnapping and other forms of violent crime.

Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, commended President Tinubu for approving the battalion, describing the decision as a significant boost to ongoing efforts to protect residents and communities across the state.

The governor also expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for what he described as the prompt processing of the state's request for an increased military presence.

According to AbdulRazaq, the establishment of the battalion will strengthen the capacity of security agencies to respond to threats posed by bandits, terrorists and other criminal elements operating in and around the state.

“On behalf of the people and government of our state, I wholeheartedly thank Mr. President for yet another promise kept to the state. We are confident that the new battalion will greatly strengthen counter-terrorism and anti-kidnapping operations across various areas,” the governor said.

The new battalion is expected to complement existing security structures and improve the coordination of military operations in vulnerable communities.

AbdulRazaq also acknowledged the contributions of the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies involved in efforts to combat insecurity in Kwara.

The governor said the state government would continue to support coordinated security operations aimed at tackling kidnapping, banditry and other violent crimes, while prioritising the safety and security of residents.

The development comes amid broader efforts by the Federal Government and security agencies to strengthen Nigeria's security architecture and improve the response to criminal threats across different parts of the country.

For Kwara, the establishment of the Omu-Aran battalion is expected to provide additional military capacity for security operations and reinforce existing measures to prevent criminal activities and protect communities.