Governor Alex Otti has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritising security in Abia State, saying meaningful development cannot thrive in an atmosphere of insecurity.
Otti stated this on Wednesday while receiving members of the Alumni Association of the Seventh Regular Course of the Nigeria Naval College at the Government House in Umuahia. The delegation was led by Commodore A.O. Bamidele (Rtd).
According to the governor, security remains central to his administration’s policies and governance agenda.
“For us, security is a top priority. Without security, every other thing collapses,” Otti said.
The governor also appreciated the association for choosing Abia State as the venue for its forthcoming 40th anniversary reunion, describing the decision as a strong endorsement of the progress being recorded in the state.
“I want to thank you for choosing Abia as the venue for your 40th anniversary reunion. We are very pleased to receive you and will do everything within our capacity to support your programme,” he stated.
Otti directed his Special Adviser on Security, Navy Commander MacDonald Ubah (Rtd), who is also a member of the Seventh Regular Course, to work closely with the association to ensure the success of the event.
While reacting to the delegation’s commendation of his administration, the governor said the achievements recorded so far were only the beginning.
“Thank you for noticing the modest changes we are making in the state. I can assure you that it is still early days. We remain committed to doing more for the good of the people of Abia State,” he said.
The governor also highlighted his administration’s merit-based appointment process, using the appointment of Commander MacDonald Ubah as an example.
“Without even knowing that he was your course mate, we appointed Commander MacDonald Ubah strictly based on merit. We recognised his pedigree and competence. If he didn’t merit it, he wouldn’t have been appointed,” Otti added.
Earlier, Commodore A.O. Bamidele (Rtd), chairman of the alumni association, said the delegation visited to formally inform the governor about their planned reunion and seek his support.
“We felt it would not be proper to host an event of such magnitude in your state without coming to pay homage. We are here to seek your support and blessings as we prepare for this important occasion,” he said.
Bamidele also praised the level of transformation taking place in Abia State, especially in Umuahia and Aba.
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“When I entered Umuahia yesterday, I saw a new heaven, a place that is totally different. Something is clearly working here, and we want to be part of it,” he stated.
He added that reports of development in the state had become widely recognised across the country.
“We are hearing so many good things about Abia. People now say that if you visit Aba, you may not recognise it again. That speaks volumes about your administration,” he said.
Bamidele further commended the appointment of Commander Ubah as Special Adviser on Security and pledged the association’s support for the state’s security initiatives.
The meeting was attended by the Deputy Governor, Ikechukwu Emetu; the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba; Commander MacDonald Ubah (Rtd); and other top government officials.
