The Nigerian Army has rejected as false and misleading claims suggesting that the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lt.-Gen. Waidi Shaibu, raised concerns over an increase in pipeline vandalism during his recent visit to the 6 Division headquarters in Port Harcourt.
This clarification was contained in a statement issued on Sunday in Abuja by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Col. Appolonia Anele.
Anele described the online report as a distortion of facts and urged the public to disregard it.
She explained that during the COAS’ engagement with troops of the 6 Division on Jan. 9, there was no indication of alarm or concern over rising incidents of pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta.
According to her, Shaibu instead highlighted the strategic responsibility of the Division in safeguarding critical national assets, noting that effective protection of such infrastructure plays a vital role in strengthening the national economy.
She quoted the army chief as emphasising that the successful execution of the Division’s mandate would contribute positively to Nigeria’s economic stability.
Anele said the COAS also encouraged personnel to maintain discipline, dedication and professionalism, while assuring them that troop welfare remains central to his command philosophy.
She added that Shaibu approved immediate steps to tackle some operational challenges raised by field commanders, including the construction of additional accommodation, renovation of existing facilities and completion of ongoing projects.
The army chief further reassured personnel that efforts were ongoing to improve access to quality education for their children, while urging troops to continue carrying out their duties with commitment.
Addressing journalists during the visit, Shaibu explained that the tour formed part of routine operational engagements aimed at interacting with officers and soldiers, assessing combat readiness and identifying areas requiring urgent attention.
Anele noted that prevailing security indicators reflected sustained efforts by troops and other security agencies in curbing oil theft and pipeline vandalism, resulting in improved stability and continued activities in the oil and gas sector.
She called on media organisations to uphold professional standards by verifying information before publication and cautioned against reports that undermine security operations in the region.
The army spokesperson also appealed to communities in the Niger Delta to support security agencies by providing timely and credible intelligence to help maintain peace and protect national assets.