…Launches solar-powered borehole in Rivers, says non-kinetic operations key to national security

The Nigerian Army has executed more than 250 civil intervention projects across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones as part of its non-kinetic strategy to strengthen public trust, support government development efforts and enhance national security.

The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Shaibu Waidi, disclosed this on Sunday while commissioning a solar-powered borehole at Eziogbafe community in Degema Local Government Area of Rivers State during activities marking the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL).

Represented by the Deputy Commandant of the Nigerian Armed Forces Resettlement Centre, Major General A.O. Oyelade, the Army chief said the projects include the construction and rehabilitation of hospitals, schools, community town halls, laboratories and roads, as well as the provision of solar-powered streetlights, boreholes and Information and Communication Technology (ICT) facilities nationwide.

Oyelade noted that besides the Degema borehole project, the Army is renovating Community Secondary School, Rumuomasi, in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area; Community Secondary School, Luusue, in Khana Local Government Area; and community town halls in Oyigbo Local Government Area.

He said the interventions complement existing government infrastructure while fostering stronger civil-military relations in communities hosting military formations.

“As an Army, we cannot set aside the role played by non-kinetic operations in achieving our national security objectives in today’s multifaceted and dynamic security environment. These civil-military cooperation projects remain a cornerstone of our efforts,” he said.

He commended the traditional rulers, community leaders, local government officials and residents for their impressive turnout, describing it as a demonstration of solidarity with the Nigerian Army and an indication of the community’s support for its operations.

Oyelade urged the people of Eziogbafe to take ownership of the facility by ensuring its proper maintenance so that it would continue to benefit future generations.

He also reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to sustaining both kinetic and non-kinetic operations through collaboration with other security agencies and local communities.

“As security challenges continue to evolve, so must our collective support for institutions of the state, including the Nigerian Army. We remain committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure peace, security and an enabling environment for national development,” he said.

Earlier, the Deputy Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, Brigadier General G.U. Nwamba, who represented the Chief of Civil-Military Affairs, described the borehole as a symbol of the Army’s commitment to winning public confidence through meaningful engagement rather than the use of force alone.

He conveyed the goodwill of the Chief of Army Staff to the people of Degema, explaining that the Army chief was unable to attend because of other official engagements marking the Nigerian Army Day Celebration.

Nwamba said the Nigerian Army believes that genuine security is built on trust, mutual respect and strong partnerships between the military and civilian populations.

“Water is life. It is a fundamental human need and a cornerstone for health, sanitation and community development. Having identified the need for clean and reliable water in this community, the Nigerian Army prioritised the construction of this solar-powered borehole,” he said.

He described the project as a token of appreciation to the people of the community for their support, prayers and peaceful coexistence with military personnel deployed in the area.

The senior officer also appealed to residents to protect and maintain the facility while continuing to support security agencies with credible information to enhance peace and security.

In his vote of thanks, High Chief Precious Agadi, who represented the traditional ruler, King Dr. Amos, expressed profound appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff for approving the project for Eziogbafe community.

He said the community was deeply grateful for what he described as a life-changing intervention, noting that access to clean water would significantly improve the well-being of residents.

Agadi also thanked the Army delegation, local government representatives and residents who attended the ceremony, pledging that the community would safeguard the facility and ensure it serves generations to come.