The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Thursday paid a condolence and operational visit to Bayelsa State, where he commended the state government for its consistent support of the Nigerian Army’s welfare and security initiatives.
The visit, which is part of the COAS’s maiden operational tour of the 6 Division Area of Responsibility, began with a formal commiseration with Governor Douye Diri over the death of the Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, who passed away in December 2025. Lieutenant General Shaibu described the late Senator’s demise as a “painful and significant” loss to the entire nation.
During a courtesy call at the Government House in Yenagoa, the Army Chief expressed gratitude to the state government for its specific contributions to the 16 Brigade. He highlighted the recent construction and donation of nine units of three-bedroom Senior Non-Commissioned Officers’ (SNCOs) quarters and two blocks containing 18 units of two-bedroom apartments for Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs).
”These facilities are timely and impactful,” the COAS stated, noting that the intervention would significantly alleviate housing challenges, boost personnel morale, and enhance the overall operational efficiency of the troops.
Lieutenant General Shaibu further observed that Bayelsa has seen notable infrastructural improvements since his last visit five years ago. He assured Governor Diri that the Nigerian Army remains committed to collaborating with the state to sustain peace and stability.
In his response, Governor Douye Diri reaffirmed Bayelsa’s unwavering support for the Armed Forces. He commended the military for its sacrifices in defending Nigeria’s territorial integrity and noted that the synergy between security agencies and the state government is the foundation of the current peace in the state.
The Governor formally handed over the keys to the newly completed accommodation units to the COAS, pledging that his administration would continue to prioritize the welfare of personnel deployed to Bayelsa.
The encounter concluded with a mutual commitment to strengthening civil-military relations to ensure long-term security within the 6 Division’s jurisdiction.
