Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has applauded the Nigerian Army over its commitment in ensuring that pipeline vandalism and illegal oil bunkering are nipped in the bud, noting that their positive impact is felt by the people of the State.
He made the commendation yesterday when the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, paid him a courtesy visit at the Government House, Port Harcourt, as part of activities heralding the 163rd Nigerian Army Day celebration holding in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.
While appreciating the COAS for choosing Rivers State as the host for such a significant programme, the Governor also congratulated him for his appointment as the COAS, stating that a lot of positive things have happened in the security sector within the short period he has been on the saddle.
“I’m commending you because within the short period that you’ve been appointed, I can conveniently say that there are a lot of positive things that our state has recorded in terms of security. I wish that your tenure will record a lot more positive improvements for the Nigerian Army.
“I want to also say that we are really happy that in the face of everything, you chose Rivers State for this very wonderful celebration. This is significant for us. It speaks two things: that Rivers State is peaceful, and Rivers State is worth securing”, the Governor stated.
He also pledged more support for the Nigerian Army, stressing that Rivers State will continue to work with the military to ensure that its personnel operating in the state receive maximum cooperation to do their jobs.
“You’re doing this work and everyone of us is enjoying the positive effects. We owe you our support. We are not going to rest on our oars in ensuring that we do whatever we need to do to make you succeed”, he added.
Earlier, the COAS told the Governor that he was in the state to attend the 163rd Anniversary of the Nigerian Army taking place in Rivers State.
He expressed profound gratitude to the Rivers State Government for always providing support to the 6th Division to conduct its operations.
“I want to specifically thank you for the support you have rendered us, especially the infrastructure, the stadium that you have put at our disposal for hosting the event, and other things that you have done at the Divisional HQ as part of your own contributions to ensure the success of the celebration”, the COAS said.
According to Lieutenant General Shaibu, it is a week-long programme featuring various activities that will impact various communities, as part of the Civil/Military relations to win the hearts and minds of the people.
- Kenoye is the Information/Public Relations Officer, Government House Press Unit.