Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara has commended the Nigerian Army for its sustained efforts in combating pipeline vandalism and illegal oil bunkering, saying the operations are producing positive results for both Rivers State and the country.
Fubara made the remarks on Friday while receiving the Waidi Shaibu, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House in Port Harcourt ahead of the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration scheduled to hold in the state.
The Army Chief was accompanied by the Emmanuel Emekah and other senior military officers.
The governor said the military’s operations against oil theft and pipeline sabotage had contributed to increased crude oil production and improved national revenue. He also praised the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army for enhancing the security of lives and property across Rivers State.
Fubara congratulated Shaibu on his appointment as Chief of Army Staff, noting that the security situation in the state had improved under his leadership.
According to the governor, Rivers State’s selection as the host of the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration reflects the state’s peaceful atmosphere and its strategic importance to national security.
He assured the Nigerian Army of the state government’s continued support, pledging maximum cooperation to enable military personnel effectively discharge their duties.
Earlier, Shaibu said he was in Rivers State to participate in the week-long activities marking the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration. He thanked the Rivers State Government for its consistent support to the Army, particularly the provision of infrastructure, including the stadium for the event and other facilities at the headquarters of the 6 Division.
The Army Chief added that the anniversary programme would feature several community-focused activities aimed at strengthening civil-military relations and fostering goodwill between the Army and the public.
