The Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has declared that the hosting of the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 in Port Harcourt is a strong endorsement of the state’s peaceful and secure environment, dismissing reports portraying Rivers as unstable.
Speaking on Monday at the grand finale of the nationwide military celebration held at the General Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Elekahia, the governor said the Nigerian Army’s decision to stage one of its biggest annual events in the state contradicts what he described as persistent negative narratives and sponsored misinformation aimed at discrediting Rivers State.
According to Fubara, the successful hosting of the event demonstrates that normalcy has returned to the state and reflects the confidence reposed in Rivers by the military authorities.
“The choice of Port Harcourt as host of the Nigeria Army Day Celebration 2026 means a lot to me as governor and to the good people of Rivers State. It signifies peace. It signifies normalcy in our state, as against the numerous negative things we read in newspapers and those we see on social media, some of which are being sponsored to malign the state and my person,” he said.
The governor reiterated that his administration remains committed to fostering a secure environment by working closely with security agencies, pledging continued support to enable them effectively carry out their constitutional responsibilities.
He said the state government would sustain the provision of logistics, infrastructure and institutional support required by the military and other security agencies, stressing that the success of security forces directly translates into the success of government and the wellbeing of residents.
Fubara also commended the Nigerian Army for its professionalism, operational readiness, technological advancement and investment in manpower development, noting that the military drills and ceremonial parade displayed during the celebration reflected the force’s growing capabilities.
The governor further acknowledged the leadership of President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, for providing the necessary support to strengthen the military in protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
Fubara urged the Federal Government and the military high command to prioritise the welfare of officers and soldiers, arguing that improved welfare, motivation and adequate support remain critical to enhancing operational efficiency and sustaining the fight against insecurity
