The Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed that security remains the bedrock of national prosperity and sustainable development, emphasizing that no society can thrive without peace, stability, and effective protection of lives and property.
The governor made the declaration during the Gala Night of the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration held in Port Harcourt on Sunday, where he commended the Nigerian Army for its steadfast commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s territorial integrity and maintaining internal peace.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Dagogo Wokoma, Fubara described members of the armed forces as the unseen guardians of national stability whose sacrifices enable citizens to live and pursue their aspirations in safety.
“Security remains the vital foundation of any prosperous society, and a nation sleeps in peace because brave men and women stand awake in its defence,” the governor stated.
The event, which attracted senior military officers, government officials, traditional rulers, and other dignitaries, formed part of activities marking the annual Nigerian Army Day Celebration, a platform dedicated to recognizing the contributions of the military to national security and development.
Fubara paid glowing tribute to military personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty, describing them as heroes whose sacrifices continue to preserve Nigeria’s unity, democracy, and territorial integrity.
“We honour those who have paid the ultimate price and stand in solidarity with the families they left behind. Their sacrifices continue to preserve our nation’s unity, protect our territorial integrity, and sustain our democracy,” he said.
The governor also reiterated his administration’s commitment to maintaining strong collaboration with security agencies, particularly the Nigerian Army, in tackling security challenges and fostering an environment conducive to economic growth.
According to him, the partnership between the Rivers State Government and the Army’s 6 Division has played a significant role in enhancing peace and security across the state, thereby supporting investment, commerce, and community development.
“We sincerely appreciate the Nigerian Army’s relentless efforts in maintaining law and order in Rivers State, creating an environment where residents can live and sleep peacefully,” he added.
Speaking at the event, the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, underscored the importance of public support and cooperation in addressing contemporary security challenges.
He noted that the Nigerian Army Day Celebration serves not only as a period of reflection on the Army’s achievements but also as an avenue to deepen civil-military relations and execute impactful community development initiatives.
As part of the activities marking the celebration, Shaibu disclosed that the Army undertook several intervention projects across host communities, including the renovation of community secondary schools and the installation of solar-powered boreholes aimed at improving access to essential services.
The Army Chief stressed that enduring peace and security cannot be achieved by military action alone, but require the trust, participation, and collaboration of citizens, local communities, and other security stakeholders.
“As an Army, we recognize the indispensable role of the people in supporting our efforts to achieve national security objectives within a joint, multifaceted, and dynamic security environment,” he said.
“Enduring security can only be achieved through a strong partnership between the military, other security agencies, and the communities we are sworn to protect. This understanding forms the basis of our Civil-Military Cooperation Projects Scheme and other non-kinetic operations.”
Shaibu expressed appreciation to the Rivers State Government and residents of the state for their support of military operations and assured Nigerians that the Army would continue to pursue both kinetic and non-kinetic approaches in confronting security threats across the country.
He further pledged continued collaboration with intelligence and law enforcement agencies to create a secure environment that supports socio-economic development.
“We will continue to collaborate with other security and intelligence agencies, as well as local communities, to provide a secure and enabling environment for socio-economic development.
“I urge all Nigerians to continue to trust the Nigerian Army and remain steadfast in supporting our collective efforts toward ensuring lasting peace, stability, and national development,” he said.
