President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of a new Nigerian Army battalion in Omu-Aran, Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, as part of efforts to improve security and strengthen military operations in the region.
The approval was confirmed 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 enhance efforts to combat banditry, kidnapping, terrorism, and other security threats affecting the state and surrounding areas.
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq welcomed the decision, describing it as a significant boost to the state’s security architecture. He expressed appreciation to President Tinubu for approving the request and also thanked the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for facilitating the process.
The governor noted that the battalion would provide additional military personnel and operational resources needed to strengthen counter-terrorism and anti-kidnapping efforts across communities in the state.
He also acknowledged the continued support of the Office of the National Security Adviser, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Department of State Services, and the Nigeria Police Force in maintaining peace and security. AbdulRazaq pledged that the state government would continue collaborating with security agencies to safeguard lives and property.
Located in a strategic position linking Kwara with Ekiti, Osun, and Kogi states, Omu-Aran is expected to serve as an important base for security operations across the North-Central region. The permanent military presence is aimed at improving surveillance, restricting the movement of criminal groups, and strengthening security along key transport routes and surrounding communities.
