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PORT HARCOURT – Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, has commended the Nigerian Army for its sustained efforts in combating pipeline vandalism, illegal oil bunkering and other security threats, saying the operations have enhanced security and contributed to increased crude oil production and national revenue.
Governor Fubara gave the commendation on Friday while receiving the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on a courtesy visit at the Government House, Port Harcourt.
The Army Chief, accompanied by the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Emmanuel Emekah, and other senior military officers, was in the state as part of activities marking the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration, which is being hosted in Rivers State.
Welcoming the delegation, Governor Fubara said the military’s success in tackling pipeline vandalism and illegal oil bunkering had significantly reduced disruptions to oil production, leading to increased crude oil output and improved revenue for the country.
He also lauded the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army for its contributions to safeguarding lives and property across Rivers State, noting that the improved security situation has reinforced the state’s reputation as a peaceful and investment-friendly destination.
The governor congratulated Lieutenant General Shaibu on his appointment as Chief of Army Staff, observing that the Nigerian Army had recorded remarkable progress in the nation’s security architecture since he assumed office.
“I’m commending you because within the short period that you’ve been appointed, I can conveniently say that there are a lot of positive things that our state has recorded in terms of security.
“I wish that your tenure will record a lot more positive improvements for the Nigerian Army.
“I also want to say that we are really happy that, in the face of everything, you chose Rivers State for this very important celebration. This is significant for us. It speaks to two things: that Rivers State is peaceful and Rivers State is worth securing,” the governor said.
Governor Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the Nigerian Army, assuring that the state government would continue to provide the necessary cooperation to enable military personnel discharge their responsibilities effectively.
“You’re doing this work, and every one of us is enjoying the positive effects. We owe you our support. We are not going to rest on our oars in ensuring that we do whatever we need to do to make you succeed,” he stated.
Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, said he was in Rivers State to participate in the week-long activities commemorating the 163rd Anniversary of the Nigerian Army.
He expressed appreciation to the Rivers State Government for its unwavering support to the 6 Division, particularly the provision of infrastructure and logistics that would ensure the successful hosting of the Army Day celebration.
“I want to specifically thank you for the support you have rendered us, especially the infrastructure, the stadium that you have put at our disposal for hosting the event, and other things that you have done at the Divisional Headquarters as part of your contributions to ensure the success of the celebration,” he said.
The Army Chief explained that the anniversary celebration would feature several community-based activities designed to strengthen civil-military relations, foster mutual trust, and positively impact host communities across the state.
