RismadarVoice Reporters, July 22, 2026
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of a new Nigerian Army battalion in Omu-Aran, Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, in a move aimed at strengthening security and combating criminal activities in the state.
The approval was announced in a statement issued by the Deputy Chief Press Secretary to the Kwara State Governor, Mashood AbdulRafiu Agboola.
According to the statement, the new military formation is expected to boost security operations in areas affected by banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and other violent crimes.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq welcomed the development, describing it as a major step toward improving security across the state.
He expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for approving the request, noting that the deployment of additional troops and military equipment would significantly enhance ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity.
The governor also commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for facilitating the swift approval of the state’s request for increased military presence.
AbdulRazaq said the establishment of the battalion would strengthen the capacity of security agencies to respond more effectively to threats posed by bandits, kidnappers, terrorists and other criminal groups operating within and around the state.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting federal security agencies in safeguarding lives and property.
The governor further appreciated the contributions 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 security agencies for their continued efforts in addressing security challenges in Kwara.
He added that the state government would continue to collaborate with security institutions to sustain coordinated operations aimed at eliminating kidnapping and other forms of violent crime while ensuring the safety of residents across the state.
