Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has assured the Nigerian Army and other security agencies of the state government’s continued support in protecting critical assets and infrastructure from criminals and vandals.
The governor gave the assurance when the newly appointed General Officer Commanding, 6 Division Nigerian Army, Major General Everest Okoro, paid a courtesy visit to him at Government House, Port Harcourt.
Governor Fubara said the prevailing security challenges demanded a collective response, adding that the state government would strengthen its partnership with the Army, Nigerian Navy, Air Force and other security agencies to safeguard the state’s assets.
He described the relationship between the Rivers State Government and the Nigerian Army as longstanding, noting that the military had consistently provided support during critical periods.
The governor also commended the Chief of Army Staff for choosing Rivers State to host the recent Nigerian Army Day celebration, describing the event as a demonstration of the Army’s appreciation of its partnership with the state.
He said the event further showcased the relative peace and unity in Rivers State, stressing that such achievement could not be discussed without acknowledging the contributions of the Nigerian Army and other security agencies.
Fubara welcomed the new GOC to the state and assured him of the government’s support, while urging him to prioritise the protection of Rivers State, which he described as the home base of the 6 Division.
Speaking earlier, Major General Okoro expressed appreciation to the governor for the support extended to the Nigerian Army, particularly during the recent Nigerian Army Day celebration in Port Harcourt.
He said the Chief of Army Staff had directed him to convey his gratitude to Fubara for the support enjoyed by the Army during the event.
The GOC explained that since assuming command, he had embarked on a familiarisation tour of military formations and units across the four states under the Division’s area of responsibility, including Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa and Delta.
He described Rivers State as strategically important to the Niger Delta and the country because of its population, oil and gas resources, and critical national infrastructure.
He pledged that the Division under his command would maintain professionalism, protect lives and property, safeguard critical national infrastructure and support civil authorities.
The GOC also called for enhanced information and intelligence sharing as well as stronger community engagement to consolidate the prevailing peace and create an environment conducive to development and prosperity.
