Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, described the establishment of a military Division and other formations as a major step towards improving security in the State Benue
The Governor therefore pledged the full support of his administration for the establishment of the newly approved Nigerian Army formations in the state, including the construction and furnishing of the headquarters of the new 5 Division.
This was as he expressed confidence that the new military formations would strengthen the state’s security system and restore public confidence.
Governor Alia, who stated these when he received a delegation from the Army Headquarters Implementation Committee, at the Old Banquet Hall of Government House, Makurdi, assured that the Benue State Government would provide land for all the approved military formations and units.
Alia also promised to provide the logistics needed to ensure the smooth take-off of the new division and particularly thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for approving the new 5 Division of the Nigerian Army with headquarters in Benue State.
He also expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff and the leadership of the Nigerian Army for the decision.
Alia noted that the people of Benue had long looked forward to a stronger military presence in the state because of the security challenges they have faced over the years.
The Governor emphasised that the new Army Division would help change the state’s security situation for the better.
He particularly paid tribute to officers and soldiers who lost their lives in the cause of defending the country and also praised security personnel serving in Benue for their sacrifices in protecting lives and property.
The Governor also congratulate Major General M. K. Gara, on his appointment as the pioneer General Officer Commanding the 5 Division and assured him of the state government’s continued cooperation with the Nigerian Army.
The Army Headquarters Committee is in Benue to implement the Federal Government’s approval for the establishment of new military formations and units.
A statement by Tersoo Kula, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Benue State, said that the visit is expected to pave the way for the take-off of the new 5 Division and other approved military units in the state.
The team was led by Major General Raymond T. Utsaha, and was accompanied by the Pioneer General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the 5 Division, Major General M. K. Gara.
