Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, has said that the military’s sustained efforts to curb disruptions in oil production have led to increased crude oil output and improved revenue for the country.

He also commended the Nigerian Army‘s 6 Division, Port Harcourt, for enhancing security in Rivers State through the protection of lives and property, as well as its fight against pipeline vandalism and illegal oil bunkering.

 

Governor Fubara made the remarks on Friday when the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House, 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 the state as part of activities marking the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration holding in Port Harcourt.

 

Welcoming the Army Chief, Governor Fubara congratulated him on his appointment, noting that the security sector had witnessed remarkable improvements since he assumed office.

 

“I am commending you because, within the short period since your appointment, I can confidently say that our state has recorded significant improvements in security.

 

“I pray that your tenure will record even greater achievements for the Nigerian Army.

 

“We are also delighted that, despite everything, you chose Rivers State to host this very important celebration. It is significant because it demonstrates that Rivers State is peaceful and worth securing,” the governor said.

 

Fubara reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting the Nigerian Army, assuring that the state government would continue to provide the cooperation needed for military personnel to effectively discharge their responsibilities.

 

“Your efforts have brought positive results that everyone is benefiting from. We owe you our support, and we will continue to do everything within our capacity to ensure your success,” he added.

 

Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff said he was in Rivers State to participate in the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration.

 

He expressed appreciation to the Rivers State Government for its consistent support to the 6 Division, particularly in providing facilities and infrastructure for the successful hosting of the event.

 

“I want to specifically thank Your Excellency for the support you have given us, especially the stadium made available for this celebration and the improvements at the Divisional Headquarters. These contributions have greatly enhanced the success of the event,” Shaibu said.

 

The Army Chief explained that the week-long celebration would feature several activities designed to strengthen civil-military relations and positively impact host communities through outreach programmes aimed at winning the confidence and support of the people.”