Chief of Army Staff, COAS, Lieutenant-General Waidi Shaibu has commiserated with the Bayelsa State government over the death of the Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, on December 12, 2025.
Describing the loss as painful, General Shaibu called for prayers for the repose of his soul and support for the bereaved family.
The COAS spoke Thursday during a courtesy visit to Governor Douye Diri in Yenagoa.
The Acting Director, Army Public Relations, Colonel Appolonia Anele, in a statement, said the visit was part of the COAS maiden operational tour of 6 Division`s Area of Responsibility.
The army chief praised the Bayelsa State government for its consistent support to army formations in the state, particularly 16 Brigade, saying such collaboration is vital for troops welfare and operational effectiveness.
He specifically commended Governor Diri for the construction and donation of accommodation for troops, comprising nine units of three-bedroom senior non-commissioned officers apartments and two blocks of nine units of two-bedroom NCO apartments.
According to him, the gesture will significantly ease the accommodation challenges facing personnel of 16 Brigade and boost their morale.
Shaibu, who noted visible infrastructural improvements across Bayelsa since his last visit about five years ago, congratulated the governor on the state’s transformation and assured him of the Nigerian Army’s continued partnership in ensuring peace and security.
Responding, Diri thanked the COAS for the visit and reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering support for the Nigerian Army and other security agencies.
Diri commended the armed forces for their sacrifices in safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity, noting that the synergy between the military, security agencies and the state government had helped to sustain peace in Bayelsa.
He formally handed over the completed accommodation facilities to the Nigerian Army and pledged continued support to enhance the welfare of troops deployed in the state.
