The Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Col. Waidi Shaibu, has directed Nigerian Army units in the Niger Delta to strengthen security around oil and gas facilities amid renewed concerns over crude theft and pipeline vandalism.
Shaibu gave the order on Friday while addressing troops of the 6 Division in Port Harcourt during his maiden operational visit. He said persistent attacks on oil infrastructure continue to threaten national output and government revenue.
He told the soldiers that protecting pipelines and production assets remains critical to Nigeria’s economic stability. According to him, the Army’s performance in safeguarding infrastructure directly affects the country’s financial health.
“Your job here is very key to protecting critical national infrastructure. When you do it well, it impacts positively on the economy,” Shaibu said. He urged personnel to remain disciplined, committed, and focused on their mission.
Welfare and Infrastructure Commitments
Beyond security operations, Shaibu pledged stronger attention to troop welfare. He said the Army had already responded to several concerns raised by commanders in the division.
The Army has approved new accommodation projects, ordered renovations of existing quarters, and directed the completion of ongoing works to reduce housing shortages. Shaibu also said authorities are reviewing education-related issues affecting soldiers’ children.
“These steps will help ease accommodation challenges,” he said. He added that better living conditions would allow troops to concentrate fully on their duties.
Operational Readiness and Economic Impact
Shaibu explained that the visit formed part of routine inspections across military formations. He said the objective was to assess combat readiness, identify operational gaps, and resolve them quickly.
During the visit, he reviewed issues raised by officers. Commanders addressed some immediately, while others will receive attention when he returns to Abuja.
He stressed that effective protection of oil facilities in the Niger Delta remains vital to Nigeria’s economy. “Once you do your job well, everything will be fine,” he said.
Nigeria’s crude production has improved in recent years after a presidential directive to security agencies to curb economic sabotage in the Niger Delta.
Data from the Nigerian Upstream Petroleum Regulatory Commission show that output averaged between 1.7 million and 1.8 million barrels per day in 2025, reflecting gains from tighter security in oil-producing areas.