The Nigerian Army has reaffirmed its role in protecting critical energy infrastructure as part of broader national security and economic development priorities.
The Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, assuring energy-sector stakeholders of continued military support for a secure operating environment.
Lieutenant General Shaibu stated this on Wednesday, 23 September 2026, when the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Renaissance Africa Energy Company Limited, Mr Tony Attah, led a delegation on a courtesy visit to Army Headquarters, Abuja.
The Army Chief described energy security as an important component of national security, stressing that the protection of strategic energy assets is essential to sustaining industrial productivity, economic stability and national development.
In a statement by the Acting Director of Army Public Relations, Colonel Apolonia Anele, said the COAS assured the delegation of the Nigerian Army’s continued support for the protection of critical national infrastructure and the creation of a safe environment for legitimate economic activities to thrive.
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Lieutenant General Shaibu also underscored the importance of sustained engagement between energy companies and their host communities, commending Renaissance Africa Energy for efforts to build constructive relationships with communities within its areas of operation.
He stressed that mutual trust, dialogue and shared interests remain important to promoting peace and stability around strategic economic assets.
The Army Chief further linked the protection of critical infrastructure to the ongoing expansion and transformation of the Nigerian Army, noting that increased formations, manpower, infrastructure and capabilities would improve operational reach and responsiveness to emerging security challenges. 
According to him, the expanded capacity would strengthen the Army’s ability to protect critical national assets while supporting the Federal Government’s broader development objectives.
Earlier, Mr Tony Attah commended Nigerian Army personnel for their sacrifices in securing the country and protecting strategic economic assets, particularly in challenging operational environments.
He acknowledged the importance of a secure operating environment to the sustainability of Nigeria’s energy sector and pledged Renaissance Africa Energy’s continued commitment to energy security, indigenous capacity development and industrialisation.
