PORT HARCOURT, NIGERIA — Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to a sustained partnership with the Nigerian Army to protect critical state assets and curb economic sabotage in the oil-rich region, pledging continued support for security agencies in their efforts to secure the state’s economic lifeline.
The Governor made this pledge on Monday during a courtesy visit by the General Officer Commanding 6 Division of the Nigerian Army and Land Component Commander of Joint Task Force, South-South, Operation Delta Safe, Major General Jamal Abdussalam, at the Government House in Port Harcourt. The meeting underscored the strategic importance of military-civilian collaboration in addressing the complex security challenges that have plagued the Niger Delta for decades.
Governor Fubara described the Nigerian Army as a “critical partner” in the state’s efforts to secure oil and gas infrastructure, which remains the backbone of Nigeria’s economy. He noted that the collaboration has already yielded positive results, including a significant reduction in crude oil theft and an improvement in the operating environment for legitimate businesses. The Governor specifically commended the military for its role in safeguarding pipelines, flow stations, and other critical assets that have historically been frequent targets of vandals and oil thieves.
“We are in this together to ensure that the enemies of our economy are defeated. I want to assure you of our unwavering support and partnership. We will continue to work with the Army and other security agencies to safeguard our environment and ensure that Rivers State remains a hub for economic prosperity,” Governor Fubara stated.
The Governor also highlighted the broader importance of security to the state’s development agenda, noting that without a stable and secure environment, the government’s efforts to attract investment, create jobs, and deliver infrastructure would be severely undermined. He stressed that the fight against economic sabotage is not just a security issue but an economic imperative that requires sustained commitment from all stakeholders.
In his response, Major General Abdussalam commended the Governor for his consistent support of security agencies and his administration’s efforts to foster peace in the state. He assured the Governor of the military’s resolve to sustain operations against criminals, noting that the army remains committed to its constitutional role of protecting lives and property. The GOC also praised the Governor’s proactive approach to security, which he said had contributed to the relative peace enjoyed in the state.
The meeting also discussed strategies for enhancing community engagement and intelligence gathering, essential tools for combating the complex security challenges in the Niger Delta. The GOC emphasized the importance of local cooperation in identifying and isolating criminal elements operating within communities, noting that the support of traditional rulers and community leaders is vital to the success of military operations. He called on residents to provide useful information to security agencies to aid their operations.
Governor Fubara reiterated that his administration would leave no stone unturned in its quest to create a secure environment, noting that the fight against economic sabotage is crucial for the state’s revenue generation and the overall development of the country. He also urged residents to support security agencies by providing timely and actionable intelligence, which he described as a “civic responsibility” that every citizen owes to the state.
The Governor’s pledge comes amid ongoing efforts by the Federal Government and state authorities to curb crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism, which have significantly impacted Nigeria’s oil production and revenue. The collaboration between the Rivers State Government and the Nigerian Army is seen as a model for public-private partnership in addressing security challenges and fostering economic growth.
As Rivers State continues to navigate the complexities of its security environment, the sustained partnership between the state government and the military is expected to play a pivotal role in ensuring the protection of critical assets and the promotion of economic stability. The Governor’s reaffirmation of his commitment to this partnership sends a strong signal that his administration will not relent in its efforts to secure the state’s future.
