River State has become a hub for crude oil production, with oil companies investing heavily in the region. So, when Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State commended the Nigerian Army for its fight against crude oil theft, many took notice. The governor praised the Army's sustained efforts, saying these operations have helped boost oil production and increased revenue for the country. Governor Fubara also expressed confidence that the Nigerian Army would continue to safeguard the nation's territorial integrity and maintain internal security.

The Army's 163rd Anniversary Celebration will be held in River State, an event that will attract Chiefs of Army Staff from 21 African countries, two former presidents, and Vice President Kashim Shettima. Governor Fubara described Rivers State as a strategic partner to the Nigerian Army, commending the state government for its consistent support to the 6 Division.

Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, the Chief of Army Staff, praised Governor Fubara for his administration's commitment to strengthening the operational capacity of the Nigerian Army in Rivers State. According to Shaibu, the upgrade of infrastructure and provision of facilities for the anniversary celebration is a testament to the state government's support for the military.

Governor Fubara and the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, also discussed security challenges in the region. The governor assured the Nigerian Army and other security agencies operating in the state of his administration's continued support, stressing that security remains a shared responsibility.

In his address, Shaibu said he was in Rivers State as part of activities marking the Nigerian Army's 163rd Anniversary Celebration. He expressed appreciation to Governor Fubara for his administration's commitment to strengthening the operational capacity of the Nigerian Army in Rivers State.

The Nigerian Army has continued to play a critical role in protecting strategic national assets, particularly oil and gas facilities, through its operations against criminal elements involved in crude oil theft and illegal bunkering.

And, so, in celebrating the Nigerian Army's 163rd anniversary in Rivers State, Governor Fubara has sent a strong message to the public and investors alike that Rivers State is a peaceful, stable, and safe place to do business.

The Rivers State Governor's statement of support for the Nigerian Army comes at a time when the country is struggling to address the issue of crude oil theft. The Army's efforts have paid off, with oil production rising significantly. Yet, much work still needs to be done to address the root causes of the problem and ensure the industry's long-term sustainability.

The Nigerian Army's 163rd Anniversary Celebration will take place in River State, with Chiefs of Army Staff from 21 African countries, two former presidents, and Vice President Kashim Shettima in attendance. This event will be a testament to the Army's commitment to peace and security in Africa.

Key Facts:

  • The Nigerian Army will celebrate its 163rd anniversary in Rivers State on July 4, 2026.
  • The event will attract Chiefs of Army Staff from 21 African countries, two former presidents, and Vice President Kashim Shettima.
  • Governor Fubara praised the Army's efforts in combating crude oil theft, which has led to a rise in national revenue.
  • The Army's 163rd Anniversary Celebration will take place in River State, a testament to the state government's support for the military.
  • Rivers State has become a strategic partner to the Nigerian Army, providing consistent support to the 6 Division.