COAS visits Bayelsa, commiserates with state government over late deputy governor, lauds support for 16 Brigade
By: Zagazola Makama
The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Thursday paid a courtesy visit to the Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, in Yenagoa, where he commiserated with the state government over the passing of Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Eweja, on December 11, 2025.
Speaking during the visit, General Shaibu, who was accompanied by senior military officers including the Commander of the 6th Division, Principal Staff Officers from Army Headquarters, the Flag Officer Central Naval Command, and the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command, expressed heartfelt condolences on behalf of all officers and men of the Nigerian Army.
“I extend my deepest sympathies to the Deputy Governor, the government, and the people of Bayelsa State. We pray that his gentle soul may rest in peace,” the COAS said.
During the visit, the COAS commended the Governor for his sustained support to the armed forces in Bayelsa and expressed gratitude for the warm reception and ongoing collaboration with the state government.
The COAS said the gesture by the state government, which includes nine units of three-bedroom apartments for senior non-commissioned officers and two blocks of nine units of two-bedroom apartments for junior Non-commissioned officers, would boost the morale of troops and their families, while enhancing operational readiness.
The COAS described the housing project as a critical intervention that would significantly ease the accommodation challenges faced by officers and soldiers within the brigade’s Area of Responsibility.
“This is a huge relief for the Nigerian Army. Adequate accommodation is vital for the welfare of our troops and directly impacts our operational effectiveness,” he said, noting that improved living conditions would allow soldiers to focus fully on their duties in securing the state and the nation at large.
“I came with a heart of appreciation for the support you have given to the commands operating here in Bayelsa State. This collaboration demonstrates the mutual benefit of working together for national security,” he added.
The COAS further observed the transformation of Yenagoa since his last visit five years ago during his tenure at the National Defence College, commending the state government for its development efforts and support for the military.
In his response, Governor Douye Diri acknowledged the visit of the COAS and the senior military officers, describing it as timely and appropriate.
He thanked the COAS for recognizing the support of the state government towards the 16 Brigade and reiterated the state’s commitment to working with the Nigerian Army to ensure peace and security in Bayelsa State.
Governor Diri also appreciated the military’s role in maintaining security in the state, noting that the collaboration between the armed forces and the state government had contributed to Bayelsa being one of the safest states in the country.
The visit, which included members of the State House of Assembly, the State Executive Council, and senior military officers.
Meanwhile, The Governor joined the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), to commission the newly constructed residential quarters for personnel.
After the commissioning, the COAS, accompanied by Gov. Diri and senior military officers, took a guided tour of the newly constructed housing units, inspecting the facilities and interacting with officers responsible for the project.
The ceremony was attended by the Commander Joint Task Force South-South Operation Delta Safe, the General Officer Commanding 6 Division, Principal Staff Officers from Army Headquarters, members of the Bayelsa State Executive Council and other senior security officials.
