Nigeria approves largest military expansion in years to counter armed groups

Nigeria's president has approved the country's largest military expansion in recent years, according to government officials, as part of an effort to strengthen the armed forces' ability to respond to a range of security threats. The plan is expected to increase troop numbers and equipment across multiple branches of the military.

The decision follows sustained pressure on the government to address attacks by various armed groups that have targeted civilians in several parts of the country. Officials have not yet detailed the full scope of funding or the timeline for recruitment and deployment, though further announcements are expected in the coming weeks.

Security analysts say the expansion reflects the scale of the challenge facing Nigerian authorities, who have struggled for years to contain groups operating across rural and border areas. The government has said protecting civilian populations remains a central priority as the plan moves forward.