COAS Announces Plans To Operationalise Newly Established 83 Division in Benin

In Benin City, the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, announced plans to operationalize the recently established 83 Division of the Nigerian Army in response to the escalating security challenges, specifically kidnapping and other threats. During a visit to the Governor of Edo State, Lieutenant General Shaibu emphasized the Army's commitment to expanding its force structure and bolstering capabilities to effectively counter emerging security issues across the nation.

At the same time, troops of the 18 Brigade successfully rescued 16 individuals who had been abducted and recovered a range of weapons, ammunition, and logistics from terrorists and kidnappers in Niger State. Lieutenant General Shaibu assured the Governor that the newly formed 83 Division, located in Benin City, would soon become operational.

The expansion, from eight to 12 divisions, aims to strengthen the Army's presence, improve command and control, and enhance rapid responses to security threats nationwide, with a particular focus on Edo State and the broader South-South region. The visit also included the commissioning of key Army projects such as the Affordable Home Ownership Option for Soldiers (AHOOAS) and Civil-Military Cooperation initiatives, which aim to improve personnel welfare and relations with host communities.

Governor Okpebholo appreciated the Nigerian Army's professionalism and contribution to the state's peace and security, promising ongoing support and collaboration. The successful operations by the 18 Brigade, which rescued 16 abductees and recovered weapons and cash in Niger State, underscore the Army's ongoing efforts to bolster operational capacity and respond swiftly to security threats, ultimately protecting communities and dismantling criminal networks.