Fubara Hails Army Over Fight Against Oil Bunkering, Pipeline Vandalism

Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has commended the Nigerian Army for intensifying efforts against pipeline vandalism and illegal oil bunkering, saying the operations have yielded significant results in improving security and boosting crude oil production.

Fubara gave the commendation on Friday while receiving the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House in Port Harcourt.

The COAS was accompanied by the General Officer Commanding (GOC), 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Major General Emmanuel Emekah, alongside other senior military officers.

The governor praised the sustained operations of the 6 Division against crude oil theft, noting that the military’s efforts have contributed to increased crude oil output and improved national revenue.

He also stated that the Army’s activities have strengthened the security of lives and property across Rivers State.

Fubara congratulated Lieutenant General Shaibu on his appointment as Chief of Army Staff and expressed satisfaction with the progress recorded in the security sector under his leadership.

“I can conveniently say that within the short period you have been appointed, there are a lot of positive things that our state has recorded in terms of security,” the governor said.

“I wish that your tenure will record more positive improvements for the Nigerian Army.”

Fubara further applauded the Army for selecting Rivers State to host the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL), describing the decision as an indication of the state’s peaceful environment.

“This speaks to two things: that Rivers State is peaceful and Rivers State is worth securing,” he said.

The governor assured the Army of his administration’s continued support, pledging to sustain collaboration with the military to ensure personnel deployed in the state effectively discharge their duties.

“We owe you our support and we will continue to do whatever is necessary to ensure you succeed in your assignment,” he added.

Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff said he was in Rivers State to participate in activities marking the 163rd anniversary of the Nigerian Army.

Shaibu thanked the Rivers State Government for its consistent support to the 6 Division, particularly for providing infrastructure and other facilities for the anniversary celebration.

He explained that the week-long programme would include activities designed to strengthen civil-military relations and positively impact host communities.