The Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has welcomed plans to establish a new Nigerian Army Brigade in Ahoada, expressing confidence that the military formation will help address security challenges and reduce tension in the area.
Governor Fubara spoke at Government House, Port Harcourt, while receiving the new Commander of the Nigerian Army 6 Division Garrison, Brigadier General Ismaila Sule, who paid him a courtesy visit.
The Governor described the initiative as a significant intervention, given the security concerns in the Ahoada axis.
He commended President Bola Tinubu and the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, for deciding to expand Army formations and commands nationwide.
He expressed appreciation for the longstanding relationship between the Rivers State Government and the Nigerian Army, noting that successive administrations have maintained a cordial working relationship with the military to strengthen security across the state.
The Governor said the establishment of the new brigade would be particularly important in addressing security concerns in the area, expressing hope that its presence would help reduce agitation and tension.
He also assured the military of the state government’s continued cooperation, promising that its support would be increased to enable the Army to discharge its responsibilities effectively.
The Rivers governors stressed that the partnership between the state government and security agencies is necessary for the protection of lives, property and critical infrastructure, including oil pipelines.
The Governor, however, emphasised that the partnership is aimed at promoting peace, progress and development, assuring the Army that the state government would not ask it to undertake any action that would undermine its professional responsibilities or be used to oppress anyone.
He noted that the security of oil installations and pipelines remains an important area of cooperation between the state government and the military, adding that effective collaboration is in the interest of both parties.
