Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has commended the Nigerian Army for its efforts in tackling pipeline vandalism and illegal oil bunkering, saying the operations have improved crude oil production and strengthened security in the state.
Governor Fubara gave the commendation on Friday July 3, 2026 while receiving the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on a courtesy visit at Government House, Port Harcourt.
The Army Chief, accompanied by the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Major General Emmanuel Emekah, and other senior officers, was in Rivers State as part of activities marking the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration scheduled to hold in Port Harcourt.
Speaking during the visit, Governor Fubara said the military’s operations against crude oil theft have led to increased oil production and higher revenue for the country. He also praised the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army for enhancing the security of lives and property across Rivers State.
The governor congratulated Lieutenant General Shaibu on his appointment, noting that the state has witnessed significant improvements in security 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 want to also say that we are really happy that in the face of everything, you chose Rivers State for this very wonderful celebration. This is significant for us. It speaks to two things; that Rivers State is peaceful and Rivers State is worth securing”, he said.
Fubara also described the choice of Rivers State as host of the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration as a testament to the state’s peaceful atmosphere and strategic importance.
He pledged the continued support of the Rivers State Government to the Nigerian Army, assuring that security personnel operating in the state would continue to receive the cooperation needed to carry out their responsibilities effectively.
“You’re doing this work and everyone 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”, Fubara promised.
Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff thanked the Rivers State Government for its support to the 6 Division, particularly for providing facilities, including the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, for 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 HQ as part of your own contributions to ensure the success of the celebration”, he said.
Lieutenant General Shaibu said the week-long anniversary programme would feature several activities aimed at strengthening civil-military relations and positively impacting host communities.