Ndume Backs Army Expansion But Seeks Better Equipment And Welfare

Senator Ali Ndume has backed the Federal Government’s plan to expand the Nigerian Army, but says the new structure must come with stronger equipment and better welfare for troops.

The Borno South senator was reacting to the approval of four new Army divisions, which would move the force from eight divisions to 12. NaijaTrend earlier reported that approval here. The plan also includes the recruitment of 28,000 additional personnel.

Ndume said the new divisions in Makurdi, Ilorin, Jalingo and Benin City could improve the country’s response to security threats. He argued, however, that creating formations would not be enough if soldiers lacked the equipment needed for front-line operations.

He called for at least five attack helicopters for each of the six geopolitical zones and asked the government to set up Special Task Force Brigades in the new divisions. He also said each division should have MRAPs, APCs and attack helicopters.

Ndume also pushed for better pay for the Army and other security agencies, saying troop morale was low. He praised troops fighting insurgents, including those under Operation Hadin Kai, for recent operations in the North-East.

Sources: Vanguard, Daily Post