Rivers reaffirms support for Nigerian Army at NADCEL 2026 gala
By: Zagazola Makama
The Rivers State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to enhance peace, security and economic development in the state.
The Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr Dagogo S.A. Wokoma, made the commitment on Sunday in Port Harcourt while representing Gov. Siminalayi Fubara at the Gala Night of the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL).
Wokoma said the state government recognised the critical role of the military in safeguarding lives and property, noting that security remained the bedrock of any prosperous society.
He said the governor was unavoidably absent due to pressing state engagements but conveyed his goodwill to the Nigerian Army and all participants at the event.
“It is with profound honour and a deep sense of patriotism that I stand before you tonight at this gathering marking the 2026 Nigerian Army Day Celebration.
“On behalf of the Government and good people of Rivers State, I warmly welcome the Chief of Army Staff, chiefs of army from friendly countries, senior military commanders and all our distinguished guests who have travelled from across Nigeria and beyond to be with us,” he said.
The SSG described the gala night as an opportunity not only for fellowship and celebration but also for reflection on the courage, resilience and sacrifices of officers and soldiers of the Nigerian Army.
He paid tribute to fallen military personnel, saying their sacrifices had helped to preserve Nigeria’s unity, protect its territorial integrity and sustain democratic governance.
“We honour those who have paid the ultimate price and stand in solidarity with the families they left behind.
“Their sacrifices keep our nation united, protect our territorial integrity and enable our democracy to thrive,” he said.
Wokoma expressed appreciation for the Nigerian Army’s contributions to peace and stability in Rivers State, saying the existing collaboration between the military and the state government had strengthened security and created an enabling environment for economic growth.
He noted that the active engagement of the Nigerian Army had enabled residents of the state to live peacefully despite security challenges confronting parts of the country.
“As everyone knows, security remains the vital foundation of any prosperous society.
“A nation sleeps in peace because great men and women stand awake in its defence.
“The ongoing cooperation we have with the military has greatly enhanced peace, stability and economic progress in our state,” he said.
The SSG reiterated the Fubara administration’s commitment to complementing the Federal Government’s efforts by supporting the welfare and operational needs of military personnel deployed in the state.
He assured the Chief of Army Staff that the state government would continue to provide logistics, operational assistance and moral support to security agencies within its capacity.
“Although the welfare of our soldiers is primarily the responsibility of the Federal Government, we recognise the important role we must play as a sub-national government.
“Our doors have always remained open to support the Nigerian Army and other security agencies working tirelessly for the peace and security of Rivers State.
“We will continue to collaborate with the military authorities and provide the necessary logistics, operational and moral support to ensure their deployments in the state remain effective,” he said.
Wokoma congratulated the Nigerian Army on the successful celebration of its 2026 anniversary and commended its professionalism, discipline and operational excellence.
He urged Nigerians to continue supporting the military in its efforts to safeguard the nation’s peace, unity and development.
