Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has formally appealed to President Bola Tinubu and the Nigerian Army to locate the headquarters of the new 83 Division in Delta State, Premium Times Nigeria reports.
The governor made the request following the recent creation of the 83 Army Division, which was announced with its base in Benin City, Edo State. Oborevwori argued that Delta State offers strategic advantages that make it a more suitable host for the division’s command center.
According to Premium Times Nigeria, the governor’s appeal is part of a broader push by Delta officials to secure major military infrastructure for the state. Oborevwori reportedly outlined reasons why Delta should be considered, though the specific details of his argument were not fully detailed in the initial report.
The request comes amid mixed reactions to the army’s decision. While some groups have praised President Tinubu for establishing the 83 Division in Benin, the capital of Edo State, other regional leaders are now lobbying for a change of location. The division is seen as a significant addition to the country’s military structure, and its placement is considered strategically important for security operations in the South-South region.
Oborevwori’s appeal adds a new layer to the ongoing discussion about where the division should be permanently headquartered. The final decision rests with the presidency and the army high command, who will weigh the governor’s request against their operational needs.
Observers will be watching to see whether the federal government responds to the governor’s appeal or maintains the current arrangement in Edo State.
