INSECURITY: President Tinubu approves new Army battalion for Kwara
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of a new Nigerian Army battalion in Kwara State, in a major move to bolster security and flush out criminal elements in the region
Kwara State governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, disclosed this in an official statement released on Tuesday, noting that the new military formation will be headquartered in Omu-Aran, Irepodun Local Government Area.
According to the governor, the strategic positioning of the battalion is set to significantly fortify security architecture, enhance operational efficiency, and boost intelligence gathering across Kwara and neighboring states.
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Highlighting the importance of the new military deployment, Governor AbdulRazaq expressed deep gratitude to President Tinubu for prioritizing the safety of Kwarans. He described the development as “another promise kept” by the President to the state.
“We are confident that the new battalion will greatly strengthen counterterrorism and anti-kidnapping operations across various theatres,” the statement read.
“Of particular note are the other discreet, multi-agency efforts of government to stamp out kidnappings, free all victims, and clear all unwanted elements from our forests.”
Governor AbdulRazaq also lauded the leadership of the Nigerian military and security agencies for their prompt response to the state’s security requests. He specifically commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for swiftly processing the approval for the new battalion.
“Specifically, I express our appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for the swiftness with which he graciously processed our request for more hands to strengthen the presence of the Army in the State,” AbdulRazaq noted.
The governor further acknowledged the critical support of the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA); the Nigerian Armed Forces; the Department of State Services (DSS); the Nigeria Police Force and other joint security outfits.
With the deployment of additional troops and heavy military assets expected shortly, residents of Kwara State anticipate a heightened offensive against banditry, terrorism, and violent crimes across rural and forest communities.
