The Emir of Ilorin and Chairman of the Kwara State Traditional Rulers Council, Alhaji (Dr) Ibrahim Sulu-Gambari, CFR, has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for approving the establishment of the new 9 Division Headquarters of the Nigerian Army in Ilorin, Kwara State.
The Emir described the decision as a landmark move that will significantly enhance national security, strengthen internal security operations, and improve the safety of lives and property in Kwara and Niger States.
This is contained in a statement issued on Thursday by the Emir’s Spokesman, Dr. Abdulazeez Arowona, who said the expansion of the Nigerian Army’s structure from eight to twelve divisions is a welcome development aimed at improving the country’s security architecture and operational effectiveness.
Alhaji Sulu-Gambari noted that the establishment of the Division in Ilorin is a clear demonstration of President Tinubu’s commitment to decentralising command and control, strengthening border security, and ensuring faster military response to emerging threats.
The monarch said: “This development will not only boost security in our dear state and the entire North-Central region, but will also create more opportunities for our youths and contribute to the socio-economic development of Kwara State.”
He also commended the Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, CON, for his commitment and leadership in ensuring that residents of Kwara continue to live in peace and harmony.
Alhaji Sulu-Gambari prayed for the success of the Nigerian Army under the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Ibrahim Shuaibu, and assured the Federal Government of the continued support and cooperation of the Ilorin Emirate and the people of Kwara State.
He urged residents to remain law-abiding and to cooperate with security agencies to enable the new Division to deliver on its mandate of protecting the nation’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
SIGNED:
Dr. Abdulazeez Arowona, ANIPR
Spokesman to His Royal Highness, The Emir of Ilorin
23rd July, 2026
