Governor Alex Otti emphasized that safety and security remain the foremost focus of his administration, promising continued collaboration with security agencies and community leaders to safeguard the state.
The thanksgiving service, organised on Sunday at the Mater Dei Catholic Cathedral, Umuahia, was held in partnership with the Nigerian Legion, Abia State chapter, to honour the nation’s fallen heroes. It provided a platform for the governor to underscore his commitment to strengthening peace and stability across Abia.
Addressing worshippers, government officials, and military personnel, Governor Otti assured residents that nothing would deter his administration from its “people-centred agenda.” Stressing the importance of proactive security planning, he explained:
“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.”
Highlighting the routine collaboration between civil authority and traditional institutions, Otti emphasised that such monthly security council reviews help the state respond effectively to evolving threats.
“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 said, reiterating the inclusive nature of his administration’s security priorities.
The governor also expressed optimism for the year ahead, noting that “significant changes were already taking place and would be sustained, particularly with the implementation of the ambitious 2026 budget.”
Governor Otti extended condolences to families of fallen servicemen and women, urging them to remain resilient in the face of loss. In a moving homage, he also thanked members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, both past and present, for their sacrifices in defense of peace and security within the country.
“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, acknowledging the role of community engagement in strengthening state security.
Otti highlighted that collective efforts between the government, security agencies, and residents, whom he referred to as “the chief security officers of their communities”, have contributed to measurable progress in peace and stability.
In his homily, Most Rev. Dr. Michael Ukpong, Catholic Bishop of the Umuahia Diocese, drew on the biblical example of Cornelius, an army officer admired for his fear of God, humility, and commitment to prayer. The bishop reminded serving personnel that their duty is not merely institutional but also a service to the people they protect.
He urged soldiers to avoid intimidation of civilians and encouraged prayer and divine protection for members of the Armed Forces, as well as eternal rest for those who have died in service.
