Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has accused sections of the media and social media of promoting “sponsored” negative narratives aimed at tarnishing the image of the state and his administration, insisting that the hosting of the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) 2026 in Port Harcourt is proof that Rivers remains peaceful and secure.
Speaking on Monday at the grand finale of NADCEL 2026 held at the General Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Elekahia, Port Harcourt, Fubara said the choice of Rivers State as the venue for the national military event contradicted claims that the state is unsafe.
“The choice of Port Harcourt as host of the Nigerian Army Day Celebration means a lot to me and the good people of Rivers State. It signifies peace. It signifies normalcy in our state, contrary to the numerous negative things we read in newspapers and see on social media, some of which are sponsored to malign the state and my person,” the governor said.
Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting security agencies operating in the state, pledging sustained assistance to enable them to effectively discharge their constitutional responsibilities.
He said his government would continue to provide logistics, infrastructure and institutional support to security agencies, stressing that the success of the military translates to the success of government in ensuring the safety of lives and property.
The governor commended the Nigerian Army for its professionalism, operational readiness, technological advancement and manpower development, as demonstrated during the military parade and tactical displays marking the celebration.
He also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, for providing the leadership needed to strengthen the military’s capacity to safeguard Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
Fubara, however, urged the Federal Government and the military high command to prioritise the welfare of officers and soldiers, arguing that improved welfare is critical to boosting morale and enhancing operational effectiveness.
He maintained that Rivers State would remain steadfast in partnering security agencies to sustain peace and stability across the state.
Meanwhile, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Monday reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to modernising the Nigerian Army and revitalising Nigeria’s defence industry, saying sustained investment in military capability is critical to tackling the country’s evolving security challenges.
Represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima at the grand finale of the 163rd Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL 2026) held at the General Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Port Harcourt, Tinubu said the Federal Government would continue to equip the Armed Forces with modern technology and strengthen local defence production to enhance national security.
He said the revitalisation of the Defence Industries Corporation of Nigeria (DICON) remains central to the administration’s strategy of building indigenous military manufacturing capacity, describing local defence production as essential for both national security and economic growth.
The President also welcomed the establishment of the African Armed Forces Forum, describing it as a platform that would strengthen defence diplomacy, deepen military cooperation and promote knowledge sharing among African countries.
According to him, closer collaboration among African militaries is necessary to address emerging threats, including terrorism, cybercrime, border insecurity, climate-related security challenges and the application of artificial intelligence in modern warfare.
Tinubu also commended the partnership between the Nigerian Army and Great Minds Event Management, saying it underscored the growing role of public-private collaboration in advancing defence innovation and indigenous military production.
He assured Nigerians that his administration would continue to invest in research, innovation and capacity building to improve the operational readiness and combat effectiveness of the Armed Forces.
Describing the Nigerian Armed Forces as one of Africa’s finest institutions, the President praised officers and soldiers for their professionalism, discipline and sacrifices in protecting Nigeria’s sovereignty and supporting international peacekeeping operations.
He said the theme of this year’s celebration, “Protecting the Nation and Serving the People: A Way Forward for the Nigerian Army,” reflected the military’s enduring commitment to the nation and its citizens.
Tinubu paid tribute to fallen military personnel, assuring their families that the sacrifices of their loved ones would remain honoured, while also acknowledging the contributions of the Nigerian Navy, the Nigerian Air Force and other security agencies to national security.
Earlier, the Chief of Army Staff, Lt.-Gen. Olufemi Oluyede, commended President Tinubu for his continued support in strengthening the operational capabilities of the Nigerian Army.
He also lauded Governor Fubara for creating a peaceful environment and sustaining collaboration with the military in Rivers State.
Oluyede said the annual Army Day celebration honours the sacrifices and resilience of Nigerian soldiers while reaffirming the Army’s commitment to defending the country against terrorism, insurgency and other emerging security threats.
