President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of a new Nigerian Army battalion in Kwara State as part of efforts to strengthen security and intensify the fight against banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and other violent crimes across the state.
The new military formation will be sited in Omu Aran, the headquarters of Irepodun Local Government Area, and is expected to boost troop deployment and military operations, particularly in communities experiencing increased attacks by armed bandits and kidnappers.
Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, announced the approval in a statement issued on Tuesday through his Deputy Chief Press Secretary, Mashood Agboola.
According to the governor, the decision reflects the Federal Government’s commitment to improving security in the state and addressing the growing threat posed by criminal elements.
AbdulRazaq expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for approving the military facility, describing it as another fulfilled promise that would significantly improve security operations across Kwara.
He noted that the additional battalion would strengthen ongoing military efforts aimed at combating terrorism, kidnapping and other violent crimes in different parts of the state.
“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.
“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 governor said.
He also acknowledged the role played by the Office of the National Security Adviser and other security agencies in supporting efforts to restore peace and tackle criminal activities within the state.
According to him, the collaboration among security agencies has continued to produce results in the fight against kidnappers and other violent groups operating in Kwara.
“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 added.
The approval comes at a time of increasing concern over insecurity in parts of Kwara State, particularly in Babanla community in Ifelodun Local Government Area, where residents have repeatedly complained about persistent attacks by suspected bandits.
Members of the community have alleged that criminal gangs continue to operate freely despite repeated security interventions, raising fears that the area has become one of the major hideouts for armed groups operating across parts of Igbomina land.
Residents also claimed that influential individuals had discouraged them from speaking publicly about the worsening security situation despite the recurring attacks.
The latest concerns followed an attack on Monday during which suspected bandits reportedly killed one resident and abducted another, further heightening anxiety among community members.
Many residents have continued to call for stronger military presence and sustained security operations to dismantle criminal camps and restore normalcy to affected communities.
The establishment of the new Army battalion is expected to improve surveillance, increase rapid response capability and reinforce ongoing operations against criminal networks across Kwara State.
