Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has approved the recruitment of 28,000 additional military personnel as part of efforts to strengthen the country’s security and combat growing violence across several regions.
The approval comes as Nigeria continues to face multiple security threats, including insurgent attacks in the north, criminal banditry, kidnappings and the growing influence of extremist groups operating from the Sahel region.
President Tinubu, who is seeking re-election in January, declared a nationwide security emergency last November following a surge in mass kidnappings and violent attacks.
The new recruitment fulfills his promise to increase the number of security personnel deployed across the country.
Government Announces Security Boost
In a statement released on Thursday, presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga described the recruitment as a major step toward improving Nigeria’s security system.
He said the addition of 28,000 soldiers would strengthen the country’s security architecture and help military forces respond more effectively to ongoing threats.
Beyond expanding troop numbers, the government also plans to purchase additional military equipment and improve the welfare of service members.
The measures are aimed at enhancing operational readiness while boosting morale among security personnel.
Improved Welfare for Troops
According to local media reports, the Nigerian government recently doubled the minimum monthly salary for the country’s lowest-paid soldiers to 100,000 naira.
Officials believe improved salaries and better working conditions will help motivate troops serving in difficult and dangerous environments.
Alongside the military expansion, the government has already begun recruiting 50,000 new police officers to strengthen law enforcement nationwide.
The combined recruitment drive represents one of the country’s largest recent investments in security personnel.
Nigeria Faces Multiple Security Challenges
Nigeria has struggled for years with insecurity across several regions.
The northeast continues to experience attacks linked to extremist groups, while many northwestern states face widespread banditry, armed raids and kidnappings for ransom.
Violence has displaced thousands of people and placed increasing pressure on the government to restore public safety.
The worsening security situation has also attracted international attention.
Government Rejects Claims of Religious Targeting
Recent comments by US President Donald Trump suggested that Christians in Nigeria were being specifically targeted by violence.
The Nigerian government rejected those claims, insisting that both Christians and Muslims have suffered from attacks carried out by armed groups.
On Wednesday, the Nigerian presidency said Trump had also sent President Tinubu a letter praising his leadership and commitment to addressing the country’s security challenges, particularly violence affecting Christian communities.
As Nigeria prepares for next year’s elections, security remains one of the biggest issues facing the government, with authorities hoping that increased recruitment, improved equipment and better troop welfare will help reduce violence and restore stability.
