{
  "id": 18373294,
  "title": "COAS assures commitment to full takeoff operation of 83 Division in Benin",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/05/coas-assures-commitment-to-full-takeoff-operation-of-83-division-in",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-11-05T20:39:54.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Daily Post Nigeria",
    "slug": "daily-post-nigeria",
    "url": "https://dailypost.ng/2026/11/05/coas-assures-commitment-full-takeoff-operation-of-83-division-in-benin/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "On November 5, 2026, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, Chief of Army Staff, visited the governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo, at Government House in Benin City. The primary purpose of the visit was to reaffirm the Nigerian Army's commitment to expanding its force structure and boosting operational capabilities to counter emerging security threats throughout the nation. Colonel Appolonia Anele, acting Director of Army Public Relations, informed reporters that the COAS made this assurance during the visit.\n\nA significant aspect of the meeting was the COAS's pledge that the recently formed 83 Division, headquartered in Benin City, would soon be fully operational. The division is part of the Nigerian Army's strategic plan to grow from eight to 12 divisions, which aims to bolster military presence, improve command and control, and enhance rapid response to security challenges, particularly in Edo State and the broader South-South region.\n\nDuring the visit, the COAS also assessed the operational activities at Headquarters 4 Brigade and commissioned key Army initiatives. These initiatives include the Affordable Home Ownership Option for Soldiers and Civil-Military Cooperation projects, which are designed to improve personnel welfare and enhance relations with host communities.\n\nIn response to the COAS's visit, Governor Okpebholo expressed his appreciation for the Nigerian Army's professionalism and its contributions to maintaining peace and security in the state. He assured the COAS of his administration's continued support and collaboration to strengthen security and maintain stability in Edo State.",
  "summary": "The Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to expanding its force structure and strengthening operational capabilities to address emerging security challenges across the country. Colonel Appolonia Anele, acting Director, Army Public Relations, in a statement said the COAS gave the assurance on Thursday, November 5, 2026, […] COAS…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}