NO ALARM RAISED ON PIPELINE VANDALISM, AS ARMY CLARIFIES COAS VISIT TO 6 DIVISION

The Nigerian Army has strongly refuted reports suggesting that the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, raised concerns over rising pipeline vandalism during his recent visit to the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt Barracks, Rivers State.

In a statement released by the Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, Army Headquarters described the report published by Sahara Reporters under the headline “Nigerian Army Chief Raises Alarm over Rising Pipeline Vandalism in Niger Delta” as misleading, malicious and a clear misrepresentation of facts. The Army stressed that at no point during the visit did the COAS express concern or raise alarm over alleged increases in pipeline vandalism in the region.

According to the statement, the COAS, while addressing officers and soldiers on Friday, 9th January 2025, emphasized the importance of their role in protecting critical national infrastructure, noting that effective performance of this duty directly impacts Nigeria’s economic stability. He urged troops to remain disciplined, committed and dedicated, while assuring them that their welfare remains a top priority under his Command Philosophy.

Lieutenant General Shaibu further disclosed that several challenges raised by commanders during the visit were addressed immediately, particularly issues related to accommodation. He announced approvals for the construction of additional residential facilities, renovation of existing quarters and completion of ongoing projects, describing these interventions as crucial to improving living conditions for personnel and their families.

The Army Chief also assured troops that issues relating to quality education for their children were receiving due attention, adding that improved welfare expectations come with the responsibility of professional conduct and adherence to military leadership and guidance.
While responding to questions from journalists, the COAS explained that the visit formed part of his routine operational tours across Army formations to assess combat readiness, interact directly with officers and soldiers and identify operational and welfare challenges requiring prompt intervention.

The statement further clarified that security assessments across the Niger Delta indicate commendable progress in combating oil theft and pipeline vandalism, with sustained security operations contributing significantly to improved stability and renewed exploration activities in the oil and gas sector.

Army Headquarters cautioned media organisations against what it described as deliberate narrative manipulation aimed at undermining security efforts, urging journalists to verify facts before publication. The public was also encouraged to disregard reports that seek to downplay ongoing security gains in the region.

The Nigerian Army additionally appealed to residents of the Niger Delta to continue providing credible intelligence on the activities of economic saboteurs to security agencies, assuring them of prompt and decisive responses in the interest of national security and economic growth.