Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to security, emphasizing that it remains a top priority for his government. The Governor made this assertion on Friday, February 28th, when he received the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Enugu, Major General O.T. Olatoye, who was on an official and familiarization visit to the security formations under his jurisdiction in Abia State.
Governor Otti underscored the importance of security as a foundation for every other governmental initiative, stating that no meaningful development could be achieved in an environment of insecurity. According to him, while infrastructure, healthcare, education, environmental sanitation, and the digital economy are critical areas of focus, security remains the bedrock upon which all other policies and programs are built.
“For us in Abia, we believe that security is everything. Yes, we are prioritizing infrastructure, healthcare delivery, education, environmental sanitation, digital economy, and so on. These are important. But, on top of all those, is security because if you don’t have a secured environment, every other thing will fail. So, we pay so much attention to security,” Governor Otti stated.
The Governor further emphasized his administration’s commitment to ensuring that residents of Abia State can sleep peacefully, knowing that their safety is guaranteed. He stated that the security of lives and property is a responsibility that his government takes very seriously, adding that he and his team are willing to make any sacrifice necessary to ensure the safety of the people.
“We want to have our people sleep, even if we don’t have to sleep, but our people must be able to sleep with their two eyes closed. That is our priority, and I know that my colleagues in the other parts of the South East share the same priority,” he stated.
Governor Otti acknowledged the importance of collaboration between the state government and security agencies, especially the Nigerian Army, in maintaining peace and order. He expressed his readiness to provide any form of assistance required to enhance security in Abia State, assuring Major General Olatoye of his unwavering support.
He noted that taking over from a predecessor who performed excellently comes with both opportunities and challenges. He encouraged the new GOC to build on the achievements of his predecessor while striving to further improve security in the state and the region at large.
“You have your job cut out for you. Succeeding somebody who did well has both positive and negative sides. Positive, because there is a track record to build on, and negative because of the big challenge of sustaining and improving on that success. However, I have received positive recommendations about you, and I am very happy to welcome you to Abia State,” Governor Otti remarked.
He further assured the GOC that his administration remains committed to supporting security agencies, emphasizing that his office is always open for assistance. “Anywhere we can be of help, I’m just a phone call away,” the Governor assured.
Governor Otti took the opportunity to commend the immediate past GOC, 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Enugu, Major General H.T. Dada, for his efforts in maintaining peace and order in Abia State and the entire South East region. He acknowledged the significant contributions of the outgoing GOC in enhancing security, expressing gratitude for his service.
Earlier in his address, Major General O.T. Olatoye conveyed the appreciation of the Chief of Army Staff (CoAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, to Governor Otti for his unwavering support of security agencies in Abia State, particularly the military. He noted that the Governor’s continuous support has played a vital role in enabling the military to effectively discharge its responsibilities in maintaining law and order.
Major General Olatoye assured Governor Otti of his dedication to sustaining and improving the existing peace and security in Abia State. He pledged to build on the efforts of his predecessor and work closely with the state government and other stakeholders to ensure that security is not compromised.
“I have come to assure you that my job is to upscale the existing peaceful environment so that we can have an improved social economy in the state,” Major General Olatoye stated.
He further noted that collaboration between the military and the government is crucial in addressing security challenges. He commended the Governor’s proactive approach to security and his willingness to support security agencies, stating that such commitment is essential for maintaining peace in the state.
During the visit, Governor Otti was joined by his Special Adviser on Security, Navy Commodore MacDonald Uba (Rtd), who also welcomed the GOC and his entourage. Commodore Uba reaffirmed the state government’s dedication to working with security agencies to address any security threats in Abia State.
Brigadier General Hassan Mohammed Bello, the Brigade Commander of 14 Brigade, Ohafia, also spoke during the event. In his vote of thanks, he expressed appreciation to Governor Otti for his continued support of the military and for making time to receive them despite the short notice. He acknowledged the Governor’s firm commitment to security and assured him that the military would continue to collaborate with the state government to ensure peace and stability.
Governor Otti’s administration has consistently demonstrated its resolve to tackle security challenges in Abia State. Since assuming office, he has initiated several measures aimed at enhancing security, including strengthening partnerships with security agencies, supporting community policing efforts, and investing in technology-driven security solutions.
One of the key security strategies implemented by the Governor includes the establishment of a well-coordinated security architecture that involves various stakeholders, including traditional rulers, local vigilante groups, and intelligence agencies. The state government has also provided logistical support, vehicles, and equipment to security agencies to enhance their operational capacity.
Under Governor Otti’s leadership, Abia State has witnessed a significant improvement in security, with a notable reduction in criminal activities such as kidnapping, armed robbery, and cult-related violence. The Governor has continuously emphasized that his administration will not tolerate any form of criminality and has warned those involved in illegal activities to desist or face the full wrath of the law.
Additionally, the Governor has been engaging with community leaders, religious organizations, and civil society groups to foster a sense of collective responsibility for security. He believes that security is a shared responsibility and that the active participation of citizens is crucial in achieving a crime-free society.
The visit of Major General O.T. Olatoye to Abia State marks a new phase in the ongoing efforts to strengthen security in the state. With the assurance of continued collaboration between the state government and the Nigerian Army, residents of Abia can look forward to an even safer and more secure environment.
As the Governor and security agencies continue to work hand in hand, it is expected that Abia State will remain a beacon of peace and stability in the South East region. The commitment of Governor Otti and his administration to prioritizing security will undoubtedly yield positive results, ensuring that the people of Abia State enjoy the dividends of good governance in a safe and secure environment.