Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, on Monday, 6 July, 2026, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to providing sustained support to security agencies operating in the state, pledging continued investment in logistics, infrastructure and institutional backing to enhance their operational effectiveness.
Fubara made the pledge during the grand finale of the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 held at the General Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Elekahia, Port Harcourt.
The governor said his administration recognised the critical role of the armed forces and other security agencies in safeguarding lives, property and national unity, stressing that his government would continue to provide every necessary support to enable them to discharge their constitutional responsibilities effectively.
He noted that the success of the military translates directly into the success of government and the overall security of the state, assuring that Rivers State would remain a dependable partner in strengthening national security.
Fubara also commended the Nigerian Army for its professionalism, operational readiness, technological advancement and commitment to manpower development, describing the military drills and ceremonial parade witnessed during the celebration as evidence of a highly disciplined and capable force.
The Governor further expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for providing the leadership needed by the military to defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity and tackle emerging security challenges.
He said the decision to host the Nigerian Army Day Celebration in Port Harcourt was a strong endorsement of the prevailing peace and stability in Rivers State, dismissing reports portraying the state as insecure.
According to him, the successful hosting of the national event contradicted what he described as “negative narratives” and “sponsored misinformation” aimed at tarnishing the image of the state and its leadership.
“The choice of Port Harcourt as host of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration 2026 means a great deal to me as Governor and to the people of Rivers State. It signifies peace and normalcy in our state, contrary to the negative stories in some sections of the media and on social media, some of which are sponsored to malign the state and my person,” Fubara said.
The Governor, however, urged the Federal Government and the military high command to accord greater priority to the welfare of officers and soldiers, arguing that improved welfare, adequate motivation and better working conditions were essential to boosting morale and enhancing operational efficiency.
He maintained that a well-equipped and motivated military remained indispensable to the nation’s security, stability and sustainable development.
