Alex Otti Declares Security Top Priority as Abia Transformation Gains National Attention

(Governor Alex Otti. Photo by www.alex otti.com)

Sustainable development cannot flourish in a dangerous environment, according to Governor Alex Otti, who has reaffirmed his administration's commitment to putting security first in Abia State.

Otti made this statement on Wednesday at the Government House in Umuahia while welcoming a group led by A.O. Bamidele from the Alumni Association of the Nigeria Naval College's Seventh Regular Course.

The governor emphasized the significance of security for growth and governance, stating that his administration would keep putting it at the center of its programs.

"Security is our first priority. Everything else falls apart in the absence of security, according to Otti.

Otti thanked the delegation for choosing Abia State to host their 40th anniversary reunion, characterizing it as a resounding endorsement of the ongoing transformation across the State.

"I would want to express my gratitude for selecting Abia as the location for your 40th anniversary reunion. We are thrilled to have you here and will do everything in our power to help your program," Otti said.

The Governor also instructed Navy Commander MacDonald Ubah (Rtd), the Special Advisor on Security and a graduate of the college's 7th Regular Course, to communicate with the association in order to guarantee smooth cooperation and sufficient support for the upcoming event.

The governor acknowledged the delegation's praise for the accomplishments his government has made, but pointed out that this is just the beginning.

We appreciate your attention to the small adjustments we are making in the state. I can guarantee that it is still early days.

He reassured them, "We remain committed to doing more for the good of the people of Abia State."

The State Chief Executive also emphasized his administration's merit-based hiring practices, pointing to Commander McDonald Uba's appointment as Special Advisor on Security.

We appointed Commander McDonald Uba solely on the basis of merit, not even realizing that he was your course mate. 
"We acknowledged his background and skill.

The governor expressed satisfaction with the beneficial effects of his contributions to the State's security architecture and stated that he would not have been appointed if he didn't deserve it.

Earlier in his speech, Commodore A.O. Bamidele (Rtd), the Alumni Association Chairman, explained that the delegation came to formally inform the governor of their planned 40th anniversary re-union scheduled to take place in Abia soon and to seek his blessings and support.

"We believed it would be improper to hold such a large event in your state without visiting to pay respects."

He stated, "As we get ready for this significant occasion, we are here to ask for your support and blessings."

Commodore Bamidele praised Abia State's notable transformation, especially in Umuahia, the state capital.

"Yesterday, when I arrived at Umuahia, I saw a completely new paradise. There's obviously something going on here, and we want to be a part of it," he remarked.

He praised Governor Otti's leadership and pointed out that the state's positive developments have received widespread recognition nationwide.

"We've heard nothing but positive things about Abia. Nowadays, it's said that you might not recognize Aba if you visit. That says a lot about your administration," Bamidele continued.

Commodore Bamidele also emphasized the numerous contributions that association members have made to the country's growth, especially in the field of security, and conveyed gratitude to Otti for appointing one of their own.

"Commander McDonald Uba's appointment as Special Advisor on Security is greatly appreciated. He said, "We are proud of him and will continue to support your security initiatives in the State."

The Deputy Governor, His Excellency, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE, the Governor's Chief of Staff, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, PhD, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Navy Commander MacDonald Ubah (Rtd), among other senior appointees of the Government.