Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has praised the Nigerian Army for stepping up operations against crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism, saying the sustained crackdown has improved security and contributed to increased oil production.
The governor made the remarks on Monday while receiving the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, at the Government House in Port Harcourt ahead of the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration, which will be hosted in Rivers State.
Shaibu was accompanied by the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Major General Emmanuel Emekah, and other senior military officers.
Fubara said the Army's intensified campaign against illegal oil bunkering and attacks on critical oil infrastructure had significantly reduced disruptions in the state's oil-producing communities.
According to him, the operations have not only strengthened security in Rivers State but have also boosted crude oil output, resulting in increased revenue for the country.
"Despite the challenges, we have recorded significant improvements in security across the state. The efforts of the Nigerian Army, particularly in tackling pipeline vandalism and illegal bunkering, are yielding positive results," the governor said.
He also congratulated Shaibu on his appointment as Chief of Army Staff, expressing optimism that his leadership would further enhance the Army's operational effectiveness and national security.
Fubara described the decision to hold this year's Nigerian Army Day Celebration in Rivers as an indication of growing confidence in the state's security environment.
He said the choice of Rivers as host demonstrated that the state remained peaceful and deserving of continued protection and investment.
The governor assured the Army of his administration's continued support, stressing that the state government would continue to provide the necessary cooperation to enable the military carry out its constitutional responsibilities effectively.
"You are making sacrifices to keep our people safe, and we are benefiting from your efforts. We will continue to support you in every way possible to ensure you succeed in your mandate," he said.
Earlier, Shaibu said he was in Rivers State to participate in activities lined up for the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration and expressed appreciation to the state government for its support towards hosting the event.
He specifically thanked the governor for making the state's facilities, including the stadium, available for the celebration, as well as for supporting projects at the 6 Division headquarters.
The Army Chief explained that the anniversary celebration would feature a week-long programme, including civil-military activities designed to strengthen the relationship between the Nigerian Army and members of the public.
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