Army denies claims of rising pipeline vandalism after COAS visit to Port Harcourt

By Philip Nwosu

The Nigerian Army has dismissed reports suggesting that the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, raised concerns over rising pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta, describing the claims as false and misleading.

In a statement signed by the spokesman of the force, Colonel Appolonia Anele, the army said the report by an online media outlet (not The Sun) titled “Nigerian Army Chief Raises Alarm over Rising Pipeline Vandalism in Niger Delta” was a misrepresentation of the facts surrounding the COAS’s recent operational visit to 6 Division, Nigerian Army, Port Harcourt Barracks.

According to Army Headquarters, the COAS did not at any point raise alarm over increasing pipeline vandalism during his visit. Rather, he focused on encouraging troops to remain disciplined and committed to their core mandate of protecting critical national infrastructure, particularly oil and gas facilities that are vital to Nigeria’s economy.

During his address to officers and men on Friday, 9 January 2026, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu reportedly stressed the importance of professionalism and dedication in safeguarding national assets, assuring the troops that their welfare remained a top priority under his command philosophy. He also announced approvals for new accommodation projects, renovation of existing quarters, and completion of ongoing infrastructure within the barracks to address welfare challenges.

The army chief also highlighted the importance of quality education for soldiers’ children, noting that such welfare issues were being actively addressed to ensure personnel remain focused and motivated to carry out their duties effectively.

While interacting with journalists, the COAS explained that his visit was part of his routine operational tours aimed at assessing combat readiness, interacting with troops, and identifying challenges that require immediate attention. He assured that issues raised during the visit would be promptly handled, either on the spot or upon his return to Abuja.

Army Headquarters further stated that current security indicators show significant progress in the fight against oil theft and pipeline vandalism in the Niger Delta, noting that sustained military efforts have contributed to improved stability and increased oil and gas exploration activities in the region.

The statement warned media organisations against what it described as the deliberate distortion of facts to suit adversarial narratives, urging journalists to verify information before publication.

The army also called on residents of the Niger Delta to continue providing credible intelligence to security agencies to help sustain the gains recorded against economic saboteurs.

Members of the public were urged to disregard reports suggesting that the army chief had raised alarm over worsening pipeline vandalism, as security operations in the region were said to be yielding positive results.