“While the rest of us sleep, you keep watch over Nigeria” — Governor Diri praises soldiers’ sacrifices

“While the rest of us sleep, you keep watch over Nigeria” — Governor Diri praises soldiers’ sacrifices

By: Zagazola Makama

Governor Douye Diri of Bayelsa State has lauded the Nigerian Army for the sacrifices made by soldiers in protecting the country, describing their efforts as vital for national security and peace.

Governor Diri spoke during a courtesy visit by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, and a delegation of senior military officers to Government House, Yenagoa, on Thursday.

The purpose of his visit to Bayelsa State was to commiserate with the state government over the loss of the Deputy Governor, Senator Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo, and to express the Nigerian Army’s appreciation for the support and cooperation extended to military formations operating in the state.

The visit also aimed at strengthening civil-military relations, assessing the operational environment within the Area of Responsibility of the 6 Division, and reaffirming the Army’s commitment to sustaining peace and security in Bayelsa State and the wider Niger Delta region.

Addressing the COAS and senior officers, Governor Diri said, “Do not mind what ignorant people may say. For those of us in government, we see and appreciate the sacrifices you make for this country. While the rest of us sleep, you keep watch over Nigeria.”

“Our soldiers pay the ultimate price so that we can live in peace; Bayelsa will never take their sacrifices for granted,” Diri said.

The Governor praised the military for maintaining peace and security in Bayelsa State, noting that the collaboration between the Nigerian Army and state government had made the state one of the safest in the country.

Diri said soldiers had continued to place the security of the nation above personal comfort, often operating under difficult conditions and away from their families to ensure peace and stability in Bayelsa and the wider region.

According to him, the state remains deeply appreciative of the professionalism, discipline and selfless service of military personnel, noting that their sacrifices have contributed significantly to the relative peace and safety currently enjoyed in Bayelsa.

The governor said the state government recognised that the burden borne by soldiers extended beyond the battlefield, stressing that adequate welfare and decent accommodation were critical to sustaining morale and operational effectiveness.

Diri assured the Nigerian Army of the state’s continued support and cooperation, adding that Bayelsa would remain committed to strengthening civil-military relations in recognition of the sacrifices made by security personnel in the line of duty.

He commended the GOC, Garison and brigade commanders as well as officers for working diligently with civilians and government authorities to protect lives and property.

Governor Diri also highlighted the state’s support to the Nigerian Army, particularly the construction of residential accommodation within the 16 Brigade’s area of responsibility.

The project includes nine units of three-bedroom senior non-commissioned officers’ apartments and two blocks of nine two-bedroom non-commissioned officers’ apartments, aimed at easing accommodation challenges for soldiers and boosting their operational efficiency.

He described the initiative as a “gesture that demonstrates our commitment to supporting the men and women who defend our territorial integrity” and assured the military of continued collaboration for the mutual benefit of the state and national security.

The COAS, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, commended Governor Diri for the support and reiterated the Army’s appreciation for the cooperation with the state government, describing it as crucial for enhancing the welfare of soldiers and the effectiveness of security operations.

The visit also drew members of the State House of Assembly, the State Executive Council, senior military officers, as well as Principal staff Officer from the Army Headquarters who witnessed the interactions between the state government and the Army leadership.

“While the rest of us sleep, you keep watch over Nigeria” — Governor Diri praises soldiers’ sacrifices