Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has praised the Nigerian Army for its sustained campaign against pipeline vandalism and illegal oil bunkering, saying the operations are producing measurable results. Fubara made the remarks Friday at Government House, Port Harcourt, while receiving Chief of Army Staff Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, who was accompanied by 6 Division General Officer Commanding Major General Emmanuel Emekah and other senior officers during a visit tied to the Nigerian Army's 163rd anniversary celebrations. The governor said the military's operations against crude oil theft and pipeline vandalism have significantly reduced disruptions to oil production, contributing to higher crude output and increased national revenue at a time the country is working to strengthen its economy. He also credited the Army's 6 Division with improving the security of lives and property across Rivers State, and congratulated Shaibu on his appointment as COAS. "I can conveniently say that within the short period you have been appointed, there are a lot of positive things that our state has recorded in terms of security," Fubara said, expressing hope for continued improvements during Shaibu's tenure. Fubara further welcomed the Army's decision to host its 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL 2026) in Rivers State despite recent security concerns in parts of the state, calling it a sign of confidence in the state's stability. "This speaks to two things: that Rivers State is peaceful and Rivers State is worth securing," he said. The governor pledged continued cooperation with the military, assuring officers operating in the state of the government's ongoing support. "We owe you our support, and we will continue to do whatever is necessary to ensure you succeed in your assignment," he added. Shaibu, in turn, thanked the Rivers State Government for providing infrastructure, including the state stadium, to support the week-long NADCEL 2026 programme, which runs through a grand finale on July 6. He described the celebration's activities as part of broader civil-military engagement efforts aimed at strengthening ties between the Army and host communities.