President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of a new Nigerian Army battalion in Kwara State as part of efforts to strengthen the fight against insecurity, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has announced.

The new military formation will be located in Omu Aran, Irepodun Local Government Area of the State, and is expected to boost security operations across Kwara as part of the Tinubu army battalion Kwara initiative.

AbdulRazaq disclosed this in a statement issued on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, expressing appreciation to President Tinubu for approving the battalion, which he described as a major boost to the State’s efforts to tackle security challenges.

The Governor said the deployment of additional troops and military assets would strengthen ongoing operations against banditry, terrorism and other security threats.

He also commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for the prompt processing of Kwara State’s request for increased military presence.

“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,” the statement said.

AbdulRazaq further acknowledged the support of the Office of the National Security Adviser, as well as the efforts of the Armed Forces, the Department of State Services, the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies in the fight against terrorism, banditry and other violent crimes.

“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 highlighted what he described as other discreet, multi-agency efforts by the Government to end kidnappings, rescue victims and clear criminal elements from forests 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,” AbdulRazaq added.