The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Friday, 3 July 2026, paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalaye Fubara, at Government House, Port Harcourt, as part of activities marking the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL 2026).
A statement signed by Colonel Appolonia Anele Acting Director army public relations said the visit highlights the enduring partnership between the Nigerian Army and the Rivers State Government in advancing peace, security and national development.
Speaking during the visit, Lieutenant General Shaibu disclosed that he was in the state for the week-long NADCEL 2026 activities, which will culminate in the grand finale scheduled for July 6. He expressed profound appreciation to the Government and people of Rivers State for their relentless support and hospitality, noting that the enabling environment and cooperation provided by the state had contributed significantly to the successful conduct of the annual event.
Furthermore, the COAS commended the Government of Rivers State for its commitment to supporting the Nigerian Army, stressing that sustained collaboration between the military, government and citizens remains critical to addressing contemporary security challenges and safeguarding strategic national assets.
In his remarks, Governor Sir Siminalaye Fubara thanked the Chief of Army Staff for choosing Rivers State to host the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration. He commended Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu for the remarkable improvement in the security situation in the state since assuming command as COAS, noting that the enhanced security environment has contributed to increased oil production and broader economic growth. The Governor also acknowledged the Nigerian Army’s efforts in combating insurgency, pipeline vandalism and crude oil theft.
Governor Fubara reaffirmed the commitment of the Government and people of Rivers State 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.
