The Nigerian Army has dismissed as misleading and malicious a media report alleging that the Chief of Army Staff (CoAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, raised alarm over rising pipeline vandalism during his recent visit to Port Harcourt.
In a statement issued by Army Headquarters and was signed Acting Director, Army Public Relations Colonel Appolonia Anele, the military described the report, published by Sahara Reporters under the headline “Nigerian Army Chief Raises Alarm over Rising Pipeline Vandalism in Niger Delta,” as a gross misrepresentation of facts and urged the public to disregard it.
According to the Army, Lieutenant General Shaibu did not, at any point during his visit to the 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt Barracks, express concern or raise alarm over an increase in pipeline vandalism. Rather, while addressing troops on Friday, 9 January 2025, the Army Chief emphasised the importance of their role in protecting critical national infrastructure, noting that effective performance of this duty would have a positive impact on the nation’s economy.
The CoAS also underscored discipline, commitment and dedication as key expectations of personnel, while assuring them that their welfare remained a top priority under his command philosophy. He announced immediate and planned interventions to address challenges raised by commanders, including approval for the construction of additional accommodation, renovation of existing quarters and completion of ongoing projects. He further assured troops that issues relating to education and other welfare needs were being addressed.
During an interaction with journalists, Lieutenant General Shaibu explained that his visit formed part of routine operational tours to assess troops’ combat readiness, interact with officers and men, and directly evaluate operational challenges with a view to addressing them promptly.
Army Headquarters stressed that security indicators in the Niger Delta point to sustained and commendable efforts by security agencies in curbing oil theft and pipeline vandalism, contributing to improved stability and continued exploration activities in the oil and gas sector.
The Army cautioned media organisations against distorting facts to suit adversarial narratives and urged them to verify information before publication. Members of the public were also encouraged to continue providing credible intelligence to security agencies to support ongoing efforts against economic sabotage in the region.
