The Federal Government has approved the establishment of a new Nigerian Army battalion in Omu Aran, Irepodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, in a move aimed at reinforcing security operations against banditry, terrorism and kidnapping. The approval, announced on Tuesday by Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, comes as authorities intensify efforts to curb violent crime in parts of the state.

According to a statement issued by the governor’s Deputy Chief Press Secretary, Mashood Agboola, the new military formation is expected to boost troop deployment and military assets in areas experiencing persistent security threats. Officials say the additional presence will strengthen ongoing operations targeting criminal groups operating within the state.

Governor AbdulRazaq described the President’s approval as a significant step toward improving security, expressing confidence that the battalion would enhance counterterrorism and anti-kidnapping efforts. He also commended the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for what he described as the swift processing of the state’s request for increased military presence.

The governor further acknowledged the role of the Office of the National Security Adviser and other security agencies, saying coordinated operations were continuing to dismantle criminal networks, rescue kidnapped victims and flush out armed groups from forested areas used as hideouts.

The approval follows renewed concerns over insecurity in communities such as Babanla in Ifelodun Local Government Area, where residents have reported repeated attacks by armed bandits. According to residents, the latest incident occurred on Monday, when gunmen reportedly killed one person and abducted another, heightening fears over the activities of criminal gangs in parts of Igbomina land.

The deployment of a new battalion represents one of the latest measures aimed at improving security across Kwara State. Authorities say the additional military formation is expected to complement existing multi-agency operations and provide greater protection for communities affected by kidnapping and other violent crimes, while reassuring residents that efforts to restore lasting peace remain ongoing.