The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, has raised the alarm over increasing incidents of pipeline vandalism and oil theft in the Niger Delta, warning that continued attacks on critical oil infrastructure threaten Nigeria’s economic stability.

Shaibu voiced his concerns while addressing troops of the Nigerian Army’s 6 Division in Port Harcourt during his maiden operational visit to the formation on Friday. He urged personnel to tighten security around vital national assets, particularly oil pipelines and installations that support crude oil production and government revenue.

According to the Army Chief, the persistent sabotage of oil facilities highlights the urgent need for heightened vigilance and professionalism among troops tasked with safeguarding critical infrastructure.

He described the protection of national assets as a core military responsibility, stressing that any failure in this duty could have far-reaching consequences for the country’s economy.

“Your role here is crucial to the protection of critical national infrastructure. When you do your job effectively, it has a direct and positive impact on the nation’s economy,” Shaibu said.

He called on troops to remain disciplined, committed, and dedicated to the Division’s mandate, assuring them that their welfare remains a top priority of his command.

Addressing some of the challenges raised by commanders, Shaibu disclosed that immediate steps had been taken to improve accommodation through the construction of additional housing, renovation of existing quarters, and completion of ongoing projects. He noted that these measures would help ease accommodation challenges within the Division.

The COAS also assured troops that issues related to the quality education of their children were being addressed, adding that improved welfare would enable personnel to remain focused and committed to their duties.

Shaibu explained that his visit was part of his routine tours of Army formations to assess combat readiness, interact with officers and soldiers, and identify operational challenges requiring urgent attention.

“I am here to see firsthand what the troops are doing, understand their challenges, and find ways to address them so they can perform their duties effectively,” he said.

He further assured the troops that additional concerns raised during the visit would be resolved promptly upon his return to Abuja, urging them to continue carrying out their responsibilities conscientiously.