The Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, on Thursday paid a high-profile courtesy visit to the Governor of Bayelsa State, Douye Diri, at the Government House in Yenagoa.
The visit served a dual purpose: to offer official condolences following the passing of the state’s Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, on December 11, 2025, and to strengthen the strategic partnership between the Nigerian Army and the Bayelsa State Government.
A Solemn Condolence
Accompanied by a delegation of senior military brass—including the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 6 Division, the Flag Officer Commanding Central Naval Command, and the Air Officer Commanding Mobility Command—General Shaibu expressed the deep sympathy of the Nigerian Army.
“I extend my deepest sympathies to the Governor, the government, and the people of Bayelsa State over this significant loss. We pray that his soul rests in eternal peace,” the COAS stated during the somber address.
Boosting Troop Welfare: The 16 Brigade Intervention
A central highlight of the visit was the COAS’s appreciation for Governor Diri’s “uncommon support” for the 16 Brigade. The Governor recently handed over a significant housing intervention for the military, comprising 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.
The COAS described the housing project as a “huge relief” and a critical factor in maintaining operational readiness.
“Adequate accommodation is vital for the welfare of our troops and directly impacts our operational effectiveness,” General Shaibu noted. “This gesture allows our soldiers to focus fully on their duties in securing Bayelsa and the nation at large.”
The Army Chief also remarked on the physical transformation of Yenagoa, noting the significant infrastructure development since his last visit to the state five years ago during his tenure at the National Defence College.
Governor Diri Reaffirms Commitment
In his response, Governor Douye Diri described the COAS’s visit as timely and encouraging. He lauded the military’s role in maintaining the peace, which has contributed to Bayelsa’s reputation as one of the safest states in the Federation.
“We are committed to working hand-in-hand with the Nigerian Army,” Diri said. “The peace we enjoy is a result of the seamless collaboration between the armed forces and the state government.”
Commissioning of New Quarters
Following the courtesy call, the COAS and Governor Diri proceeded to the military cantonment to formally commission the newly constructed residential quarters.
The ceremony was attended by the Commander of the Joint Task Force (South-South) *Operation Delta Safe*, Principal Staff Officers from Army Headquarters, and members of the Bayelsa State Executive Council. After the ribbon-cutting, the COAS led a guided tour of the facilities, interacting with the personnel who will occupy the units.
This visit underscores the Nigerian Army’s focus on “Civil-Military Cooperation” and the prioritization of personnel welfare as a cornerstone of national security.
