Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has reaffirmed that Rivers security partnership remains central to achieving sustainable development, describing security as the bedrock of every prosperous society and pledging continued collaboration with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to preserve peace across the state. The governor made the remarks on Sunday during the gala night marking the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration in Port Harcourt.
Represented by the Secretary to the Rivers State Government, Dr. Dagogo Wokoma, Governor Fubara commended the Nigerian Army for its dedication to defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and maintaining internal security. He said lasting peace and stability are essential conditions for economic growth and national development.
Speaking at the event, the governor emphasised the importance of security in nation-building.
“As everyone knows, 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.” Fubara also honoured military personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty, describing their sacrifices as crucial to preserving Nigeria’s unity and democratic progress.
“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.”
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the Rivers security partnership, noting that collaboration between the Rivers State Government and the Nigerian Army’s 6 Division has contributed significantly to improved peace, public safety and economic activities across the state.
“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.”
Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, said the Nigerian Army Day Celebration serves as an opportunity to deepen civil-military relations while strengthening public support for the Armed Forces.
He disclosed that the Army implemented several community intervention projects as part of the celebration, including the renovation of community secondary schools and the installation of solar-powered boreholes to improve living conditions in host communities. According to the Army Chief, effective national security depends on cooperation between the military and citizens.
“As an Army, we recognise the indispensable role of the people in supporting our efforts to achieve national security objectives within a joint, multifaceted, and dynamic security environment.”
He added that enduring peace can only be achieved through sustained collaboration among the military, security agencies and local communities. Shaibu explained that this philosophy continues to guide the Army’s Civil-Military Cooperation Projects Scheme and other non-kinetic security operations nationwide.
The renewed Rivers security partnership reflects continued cooperation between the state government and security agencies aimed at strengthening public safety, improving community relations and creating a stable environment for socio-economic development.
The Chief of Army Staff thanked the Rivers State Government and residents for their continued support, assuring Nigerians that the Army would sustain both kinetic and non-kinetic operations while working closely with intelligence agencies and local communities to promote lasting peace, national stability and development.
