FOSAD 2025 South-East Best Performing Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to the safety and security of lives and property, declaring that security remains the foremost priority of his government. The governor gave the assurance on Sunday at the Mater Dei Catholic Cathedral, Umuahia, during the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Interdenominational Thanksgiving Service organised by the Abia State Government in collaboration with the Nigerian Legion, Abia State chapter.
The solemn service was held to honour Nigeria’s fallen heroes who paid the supreme price in defence of the nation’s unity, sovereignty, and peace. It brought together government officials, security commanders, traditional rulers, religious leaders, veterans, families of fallen soldiers, and residents of the state, all united in reflection, gratitude, and prayer.
Addressing the congregation, Governor Otti stressed that the security of Abians remains non-negotiable, noting that his administration has institutionalised regular security engagements to proactively address emerging threats and sustain peace across the state.
“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.
He explained that the meetings provide a platform for honest assessment of the security situation, intelligence sharing, and the design of preventive and responsive measures tailored to the peculiarities of Abia State. According to him, this collaborative approach has been instrumental in maintaining relative peace and stability across the state.
Governor Otti reiterated that his administration remains focused on its people-centred agenda and would not be distracted by political distractions or vested interests.
“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 declared.
The governor also expressed optimism about the year 2026, describing it as a period that would consolidate the gains already recorded by his administration. He noted that visible changes were already taking place in the state and would be sustained through the effective implementation of the 2026 budget.
According to him, the budget was deliberately crafted to drive development, enhance security, improve infrastructure, and uplift the living standards of the people. He assured residents that the government would remain disciplined and accountable in executing its plans.
Governor Otti used the occasion to extend his heartfelt condolences to the families of fallen members of the Armed Forces, acknowledging the pain and sacrifices they continue to bear for the nation.
“We recognise that behind every fallen hero is a family that continues to carry the burden of loss. We pray that God grants you the strength to endure and comforts you in your moments of grief,” he said.
He paid glowing tribute to both serving and fallen members of the Nigerian Armed Forces for their courage, resilience, and selfless service to the nation. The governor also commended security commanders in the state for their professionalism and dedication, noting that their efforts, in partnership with other security agencies and local communities, have contributed significantly to the peace enjoyed in Abia.
“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.
Governor Otti emphasised the role of citizens in maintaining security, describing residents as the “chief security officers” of their respective communities. He noted that the synergy between the Armed Forces, other security agencies, the government, traditional institutions, and the people has yielded positive results.
“The Armed Forces are working with other security agencies, the government, and our people—who are the chief security officers of their communities—to ensure peace in the state. These collective efforts have produced the results we are seeing,” he stated.
The interdenominational service featured prayers for the nation, the state, security personnel, and families of fallen heroes. It also served as a moment of sober reflection on the cost of peace and the responsibilities of leadership and citizenship.
In his homily, the Catholic Bishop of the Umuahia Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Michael Ukpong, charged members of the Armed Forces to draw inspiration from the biblical character Cornelius, a Roman army officer renowned for his fear of God, humility, generosity, and commitment to prayer.
Bishop Ukpong reminded the soldiers that their calling is one of service and sacrifice, urging them to uphold integrity, discipline, and respect for human dignity in the discharge of their duties.
“You are servants of the people. You are called to protect, not to intimidate. Your uniform should be a symbol of hope and reassurance to the citizens you serve,” the bishop said.
He prayed for God’s continued protection over serving personnel and asked for eternal rest for soldiers who lost their lives in the line of duty. The bishop also encouraged families of fallen heroes to take solace in the knowledge that their loved ones did not die in vain.
The Armed Forces Remembrance Day celebration in Abia State underscored the administration’s emphasis on peace, unity, and collective responsibility. It also reaffirmed Governor Otti’s resolve to prioritise security as a foundation for sustainable development.
As the state looks ahead to 2026, the governor assured residents that his administration would remain steadfast in safeguarding lives and property, strengthening security architecture, and delivering governance that reflects the hopes and aspirations of the people of Abia State.
