Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has described security as the foundation of sustainable development, saying peace and stability are essential for the growth and prosperity of any society.

Fubara made the remarks on Sunday at the gala night marking the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration in Port Harcourt. Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Dagogo Wokoma, the governor commended the Nigerian Army for its commitment to protecting Nigeria’s territorial integrity and maintaining peace.

“Security remains the vital foundation of any prosperous society, and a nation sleeps in peace because brave men and women stand awake in its defence,” he said.

The governor also paid tribute to fallen military personnel, describing their sacrifices as crucial to preserving Nigeria’s unity, democracy and territorial integrity. He expressed solidarity with the families of those who lost their lives in service.

Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to working closely with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies, noting that the partnership between the Rivers State Government and the Army’s 6 Division has contributed to improved security and economic activities in the state.

Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, said the Nigerian Army Day Celebration offers an opportunity to strengthen civil-military relations and promote community development. He noted that the Army had executed projects including the renovation of secondary schools and the installation of solar-powered boreholes in host communities.

Shaibu stressed that lasting national security depends on collaboration between the military, other security agencies and the public, adding that the Army’s Civil-Military Cooperation Projects Scheme reflects that commitment.

He thanked the Rivers State Government and residents for their continued support and assured Nigerians that the Army would sustain both military and non-military efforts to address security challenges while promoting peace and national development.