By Tunji Braimoh, Abuja

Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has announced that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has approved the establishment of a new Nigerian Army battalion in the state as part of efforts to strengthen security and address emerging threats in several communities.

The governor disclosed this while addressing stakeholders on recent security developments in the state, describing the President’s approval as a major boost to ongoing operations against criminal elements and armed groups operating within and around Kwara.

According to AbdulRazaq, the decision followed sustained engagements between the state government, security agencies and the Federal Government on the need to reinforce security presence in vulnerable areas, particularly in Kwara North.

He said the new battalion would enhance military deployment, improve surveillance capabilities and provide a rapid response mechanism to security incidents across the state.

The governor noted that the military formation would complement existing security structures and strengthen efforts to combat banditry, kidnapping, terrorism and other forms of violent crime.

AbdulRazaq commended President Tinubu for responding swiftly to the security concerns raised by residents and the state government, adding that the intervention demonstrated the Federal Government’s commitment to protecting lives and property.

He explained that the establishment of the battalion would also improve coordination among security agencies operating in the state and neighbouring regions.

The governor stated that the state government would continue to support security agencies through logistics, intelligence sharing and community engagement initiatives aimed at improving public safety.

He urged residents to remain vigilant and cooperate with security personnel by providing timely and credible information that could assist in preventing criminal activities.

According to him, security remains a collective responsibility requiring collaboration among government institutions, traditional rulers, community leaders and citizens.

The approval comes amid heightened security concerns in parts of Kwara State, particularly in border communities where criminal groups have attempted to establish operational bases.

Security analysts believe the deployment of a new battalion will significantly enhance military presence, strengthen intelligence gathering and improve the capacity of security forces to respond to threats in the state.

The governor expressed confidence that the additional military formation would contribute to restoring lasting peace and stability across Kwara and support broader efforts to secure the North-Central region.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with the Armed Forces and other security agencies to ensure that criminal elements have no safe haven within the state.

The new battalion is expected to commence operations following the completion of necessary administrative and operational arrangements by military authorities.