The Nigerian Army has strongly refuted a report alleging that the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, raised alarm over rising cases of pipeline vandalism during his recent visit to the Niger Delta.
In a statement issued by Army Headquarters and signed by Army Spokesman Colonel Appolonia Anele, the force described the Sahara Reporters’ story titled “Nigerian Army Chief Raises Alarm over Rising Pipeline Vandalism in Niger Delta” as misleading and a gross misrepresentation of what transpired during the COAS’s visit to 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt Barracks.
The Army clarified that Lieutenant General Shaibu never expressed concern or alarm about increasing pipeline vandalism during the visit. Instead, he was said to have commended troops for their role in safeguarding critical national infrastructure, particularly oil and gas facilities that are central to Nigeria’s economy.
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While addressing officers and men on Friday, January 9, 2025, the COAS reportedly emphasised discipline, commitment and dedication, urging personnel to take their responsibilities seriously in line with the division’s mandate. He also assured them that their welfare was a top priority, announcing approvals for new accommodation, renovation of existing quarters and the completion of ongoing projects within the barracks.
The Army Chief further noted that issues relating to the education of soldiers’ children were being looked into as part of broader welfare reforms, stressing that a motivated and well-cared-for force was essential for effective operations.
Speaking to journalists during the visit, Lieutenant General Shaibu said he was on his maiden operational tour of 6 Division to interact with troops, assess their combat readiness and understand their challenges so that they could be promptly addressed.
Army Headquarters added that security parameters in the Niger Delta show a marked improvement, with sustained military operations significantly reducing oil theft and pipeline vandalism across the region. These efforts, the Army said, have helped to stabilise the oil and gas sector and boost economic activities.
The statement warned media outlets against publishing unverified reports that could undermine ongoing security operations and called on the public to continue supporting security agencies with credible intelligence.
It urged Nigerians to disregard the Sahara Reporters’ publication, insisting that the Nigerian Army remains committed to protecting national assets and maintaining security in the Niger Delta.
, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, raised alarm over rising cases of pipeline vandalism during his recent visit to the Niger Delta.){kind=link}