Tinubu Approves New Army Battalion For Kwara

President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of a new Nigerian Army battalion in Kwara State as part of renewed efforts to strengthen security and combat banditry, terrorism and kidnapping across the state.

The new military formation will be located in Omu Aran, the headquarters of Irepodun Local Government Area, and is expected to boost the deployment of troops and military equipment to areas grappling with rising cases of violent crimes, particularly kidnappings and bandit attacks.

Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, announced the development in a statement issued on Tuesday by his Deputy Chief Press Secretary, Mashood Agboola.

According to the governor, the approval underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to addressing the state’s security challenges and safeguarding lives and property.

AbdulRazaq expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for approving the new battalion, describing the decision as another fulfilled promise that would significantly reinforce ongoing military operations against criminal elements.

“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 counterterrorism and anti-kidnapping operations across various theatres,” the governor said.

He also commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for facilitating the approval process.

“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 added.

The governor further acknowledged the Office of the National Security Adviser and other security agencies for their collaborative efforts in tackling insecurity across the state.

“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,” he said.

The approval comes amid growing concerns over worsening insecurity in parts of Kwara State, particularly in Babanla community in Ifelodun Local Government Area, where residents have repeatedly raised alarm over persistent attacks by armed bandits.

Residents recently alleged that criminal groups continue to operate freely in the area despite ongoing security operations, while also claiming that influential individuals had discouraged them from speaking publicly about the attacks.

The renewed concerns intensified following Monday’s attack on the community, during which gunmen reportedly killed one resident and abducted another, fueling fears that Babanla has become a major operational base for criminal gangs terrorising parts of the Igbomina axis.

The establishment of the new battalion is expected to strengthen military presence in the region and improve security response as authorities intensify efforts to curb violent crimes and restore public confidence across Kwara State.