Kwara youths have hailed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the creation of the new 9 Division of the Nigerian Army in the state, describing the development as a major step towards strengthening security in the state and neighboring communities.

The commendation was made during a joint peaceful rally organised by the Coalition of Kwara Youth Organisations and the Arewa Youth Assembly in Ilorin.

Speaking at the rally, President of the Coalition of Kwara Youth Organisations, Ibrahim Funsho Saadu, popularly known as Funsho Layeri, said the creation of the division was a significant response to the security concerns of the people.

Saadu, who said that the development deserved public appreciation, added that the people of the state had a responsibility to acknowledge efforts aimed at protecting lives and property.

“When President Bola Tinubu approved the creation of the 9 Division of the Nigerian Army with its headquarters in Ilorin, he did something no other President has done. He saw our vulnerability and he responded with action”, he said.

According to him, the establishment of the division goes beyond military presence, as it presents opportunities for job creation, improved security, increased investment and economic development in Kwara State.

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He urged residents to support the security agencies with useful information and cooperation, stressing that the success of the division would depend partly on the relationship between the military and the communities it serves.

Also speaking, the Publicity Secretary of the Arewa Youth Assembly, Aliyu Muhammad, described the creation of the 9 Division as a historic development and a turning point in Nigeria’s security efforts.

Muhammad commended President Tinubu for approving the expansion of the Nigerian Army from eight to 12 divisions, as well as the recruitment of additional personnel and measures to improve the welfare of soldiers.

He said the new division would enhance military command and control, strengthen border security, protect critical infrastructure and facilitate faster responses to emerging security threats.

“Citizens will sleep better at night knowing that a whole Army Division is closer to them, farmers will go to their farms with greater confidence and children will attend school without fear,” Muhammad said.

He called on Nigerians to support security agencies with intelligence, prayers and goodwill, emphasising that security remained a collective responsibility.

The youth organisations pledged their support and cooperation to the Nigerian Army and other security agencies, while expressing optimism that the creation of the 9 Division would contribute to lasting peace and development in Kwara State.

He commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Ibrahim Shuaibu, and the Chief of Defence Staff for their leadership and commitment to improving the nation’s security architecture.

Saadu also congratulated the General Officer Commanding the newly created division, urging him to uphold professionalism and maintain the confidence reposed in him by the President and the military leadership.