FIC Report (Abia State) – The army, as a critical Federal Government initiative to protect lives and property across the nation, received a strong boost in Abia State as Governor Alex Otti, OFR, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritising public safety above all else.
Governor Otti stated this when he received the newly posted General Officer Commanding (GOC), 82 Division of the Nigerian Army, Enugu, Major General Oluremi Fadairo, who was on a familiarisation visit to Government House, Umuahia.
The Governor stressed that his administration leaves no room for complacency in matters of security, as no meaningful development can thrive without peace and stability.
“Security costs a lot of money, so we spare no effort in ensuring that our people are secured. I’ve always held the view that anything you do without prioritising security will amount to nothing. If people cannot sleep with their two eyes closed, no matter how much investment you put in, nobody will patronise it,” Governor Otti said.
He assured the GOC of maximum cooperation and continued support from the State Government, adding that his approach to security is driven not by luck but by deliberate, consistent hard work.
“For us, we believe in working hard. We believe in paying superior attention to security. We are very happy to have you here,” he added, urging Major General Fadairo to visit all military locations and battalions across the State as part of his strategic familiarisation.
In his remarks, Major General Oluremi Fadairo, who also doubles as the Commander, South East Joint Task Force, Operation Udoka, expressed confidence that his extensive experience working in the region would aid ongoing efforts to curb insecurity and criminality.
“Having served in various capacities in this place as a young officer, I want to bring my wealth of experience on board so that we can stem the tide of insecurity and criminality out of Abia State and the entire South East. I know the nooks and corners of this general area, so coming here is a blessing to the operation,” he stated.
The GOC commended Governor Otti for the consistent support given to security agencies, noting that he had received positive briefings on the administration’s commitment to safety and order.
Meanwhile, ahead of the Christmas season, the Abia State Government has intensified security across the State to ensure a safe and peaceful festive period.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Navy Commander MacDonald Uba (Rtd), disclosed this to journalists after the monthly Security Council meeting chaired by Governor Otti.
He assured residents that the State’s existing security architecture has been reinforced, and all agencies remain on red alert in response to national security trends.
“The normal security is in place, but there will be heightened security for the Yuletide. Given the level of insecurity in the nation, we are not taking anything for granted. We are pledging that Government Security Agencies will ensure a hitch-free Yuletide season,” he said.
The meeting, which had in attendance heads of all security formations in the State, reviewed ongoing operations and approved fresh strategies aimed at reinforcing public safety throughout the festive season.
Signed
Abiakam Gloria Ify
HOC, FIC Umuahia Abia State
November 27,2025
