Rivers State governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has commended the Nigerian Army for its sustained efforts in combating pipeline vandalism and illegal oil bunkering, saying the operations have boosted crude oil production, increased national revenue and improved security in the state.
Fubara gave the commendation on Friday when the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House in Port Harcourt.
The COAS, accompanied by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Emmanuel Emekah, and other senior military officers, was in Rivers State as part of activities marking the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration scheduled to hold in Port Harcourt.
The governor said the military’s operations against pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft had significantly reduced disruptions to oil production, leading to increased crude output and higher revenue for the country.
He also praised the 6 Division of the Nigerian Army for its contributions to the security of lives and property in Rivers State.
Fubara congratulated Shaibu on his appointment as Chief of Army Staff, noting that the military had recorded significant security successes 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.
The governor pledged the continued support of the Rivers State Government to the Nigerian Army, assuring the military of maximum cooperation in carrying out its constitutional responsibilities.
“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,” Fubara said.
Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff said he was in Rivers State to participate in the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration and expressed appreciation to the state government for its support towards the success of the event.
Shaibu particularly thanked the Rivers State Government for making key infrastructure, including the state stadium, available for the celebration, as well as other support extended to the 6 Division.
“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 own contributions to ensure the success of the celebration,” he said.
The Army chief explained that the week-long anniversary would feature a series of activities aimed at strengthening civil-military relations and delivering meaningful impact to communities across the state.
According to him, the programme is designed to win the hearts and minds of the people while deepening the Nigerian Army’s relationship with host communities through various outreach initiatives
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