Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara on Friday credited the Nigerian Army’s sustained operations against crude oil theft and other criminal activities with improving Nigeria’s oil production and increasing revenue accruing to the country.
The governor spoke while receiving the Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, who paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House, Port Harcourt, ahead of the Nigerian Army’s 163rd Anniversary Celebration, which is being hosted in Rivers State.
Fubara said the Army has remained a critical pillar in the protection of Nigeria’s strategic oil and gas infrastructure, noting that its intensified operations against illegal bunkering, crude oil theft and other security threats have yielded measurable economic benefits for the country.
According to him, the improved security around oil installations has resulted in increased crude oil production, translating into higher revenue for the Federal Government at a time the nation is striving to strengthen its economy.
The governor commended the leadership of the Chief of Army Staff, describing his stewardship as instrumental in enhancing security across the country while also improving the welfare and operational effectiveness of officers and soldiers.
He expressed confidence that the Nigerian Army would continue to fulfil its constitutional responsibility of defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and supporting internal security operations.
Fubara also said the choice of Rivers State as the venue for the Nigerian Army’s 163rd Anniversary Celebration sends a strong message about the prevailing security situation in the state.
According to him, despite narratives that have portrayed Rivers as volatile in recent times, the decision by the Army High Command to stage one of its most significant annual events in the state demonstrates that Rivers is peaceful, stable and secure enough to host dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the Nigerian Army and other security agencies, stressing that maintaining security requires collective effort and sustained collaboration between government institutions and security forces.
He pledged that the Rivers State Government would continue to strengthen its partnership with the military in order to sustain peace, safeguard critical national assets and create an environment conducive to economic growth and development.
Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Shaibu, said his visit formed part of activities lined up for the Nigerian Army’s 163rd Anniversary Celebration.
He disclosed that the anniversary would attract Chiefs of Army Staff from 21 African countries, alongside two former Nigerian Presidents, Vice President Kashim Shettima and other distinguished guests.
Shaibu described Rivers State as a strategic partner of the Nigerian Army and commended the state government for its unwavering support to the Army, particularly the 6 Division, Nigerian Army.
He specifically lauded the Rivers State Government for upgrading infrastructure and providing facilities to ensure the successful hosting of the anniversary celebration.
The Army Chief also expressed appreciation to Governor Fubara for his administration’s continued commitment to strengthening the operational capacity of the Nigerian Army in Rivers State, noting that such support has enhanced the military’s ability to carry out its constitutional responsibilities effectively.
(The Whistler)