The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has underscored the importance of stronger collaboration between the Nigerian Army, state governments and citizens in tackling Nigeria’s evolving security challenges and protecting critical national assets.
According to an official statement signed by the Acting Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the COAS made the call on Friday during a courtesy visit to the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalaye Fubara, at the Government House, Port Harcourt, as part of activities marking the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL 2026).
Lieutenant General Shaibu explained that he was in Rivers State to participate in the week-long NADCEL 2026 activities, which will culminate in the grand finale on July 6. He expressed appreciation to the Government and people of Rivers State for their unwavering support and warm hospitality, noting that the conducive environment and cooperation provided by the state had contributed significantly to the successful conduct of the annual celebration.
The Army Chief commended the Rivers State Government for its sustained support to the Nigerian Army, stressing that effective collaboration between the military, government and the public remains essential to addressing contemporary security threats and safeguarding strategic national assets.
Responding, Governor Sir Siminalaye Fubara thanked the Chief of Army Staff for selecting Rivers State as the host of the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration. He praised Lieutenant General Shaibu for the noticeable improvement in the security situation across the state since assuming office, noting that the enhanced security environment has boosted oil production and contributed to economic growth.
Governor Fubara also acknowledged the Nigerian Army’s efforts in combating insurgency, pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft, describing the military’s contributions as vital to national development.
The Governor reaffirmed the commitment of the Rivers State Government and its people to sustaining their support for the Nigerian Army, both in hosting the anniversary celebration and in ongoing operations aimed at protecting critical national infrastructure, strengthening internal security and promoting Nigeria’s economic stability.
