Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has re-emphasised that safety and security remain the foremost priorities of his administration, assuring residents that his government will not be distracted from its people-centred agenda.
The governor gave the assurance on Sunday at the Mater Dei Catholic Cathedral, Umuahia, during the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Interdenominational Thanksgiving Service. The event was organised by the Abia State Government in collaboration with the Nigerian Legion, Abia State chapter, to honour fallen heroes who paid the ultimate price in the service of the nation.
Addressing the congregation, Otti said his administration places premium importance on security, stressing that peace remains the foundation for sustainable development in the state. He disclosed that his government holds regular security council meetings involving service commanders and traditional rulers to assess developments and plan proactive strategies.
“For us, safety and security are top priorities. That is why virtually every month we sit down with all the service commanders and the Chairman of the Council of Traditional Rulers to hold a security council meeting, where we review developments and map out strategies for the following month,” the governor said.
Otti further assured Abians that his administration would continue to work tirelessly for the people, noting that no distractions would derail its commitment to inclusive governance.
“We will continue to work for our people. Nothing can distract us. I want to assure you that this is a government of the people, not a government of a few,” he added.
The governor expressed optimism that 2026 would be a remarkable year for Abia State, pointing out that the significant changes already taking place across various sectors would be sustained through the implementation of the ambitious 2026 budget.
He also extended condolences to families of deceased members of the Armed Forces, urging them to remain strong and find comfort in the sacrifices made by their loved ones. Otti paid glowing tribute to both serving and fallen members of the Nigerian Armed Forces for their dedication to peace and national security.
“I want to thank the service commanders for their labour of love, which we do not take for granted. We also appreciate our people for the massive support they continue to give to the government,” he said.
According to the governor, the collaboration between the Armed Forces, other security agencies, the government and local communities has continued to yield positive results in maintaining peace across the state.
In his homily, the Catholic Bishop of the Umuahia Diocese, Most Rev. Dr Michael Ukpong, urged members of the Armed Forces to emulate Cornelius, the biblical army officer known for his fear of God, humility and devotion to prayer. He reminded soldiers that they are servants of the people and should never intimidate those they are sworn to protect, while offering prayers for the protection of serving personnel and eternal rest for fallen heroes.
