The Northern Senators Forum, NSF, has endorsed President Bola Tinubu’s approval of the expansion of the Nigerian Army, describing it as a timely intervention to address worsening security challenges across the country.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Senator Abdulaziz Musa Yar’Adua, on Wednesday, the forum said the decision to increase Army divisions from eight to 12 and recruit 28,000 additional personnel would strengthen operational coverage nationwide.
According to the presidency, the expansion is designed to decentralize command, boost border security and improve response times to emerging threats.
The senators noted that the move provides more strategic support across the country and would help restore public confidence in the nation’s security architecture.
However, the forum stressed that the success of the new formations depends on adequate funding, equipment, logistics and improved welfare for personnel.
“The expansion is a welcome development. But for the new divisions to function effectively, our troops must be properly equipped and motivated,” the statement said.
The senators also condemned recent attacks in Benue and Kaduna states that claimed 43 lives and displaced several families.
In Benue, gunmen attacked Efeyi Community in Ugboju, Otukpo Local Government Area, in the early hours of Tuesday, July 28, killing 13 people and injuring several others, but security agencies have since been deployed to restore order.
In Kaduna, attackers invaded Naridon Village, Kamaru Ward, Kauru Local Government Area, on Sunday, July 26, killing about 30 people, including women and children, and burning down homes.
Expressing deep sympathy with the governments and people of both states, and with all the families affected by the violence, the forum called on communities to cooperate with security agencies by providing timely and credible information to aid operations.
The Northern Senators further urged the federal government to ensure the swift apprehension of the perpetrators and provide adequate support for victims and displaced persons.
They reiterated that lasting peace can only be achieved through coordinated security action, improved intelligence gathering and sustained investment in the security sector.
