Governor Alex Otti honours five former security commanders for their role in tackling insecurity in Abia State. Full details in the full story.
…. Bids Farewell to Five Outgone Service Chiefs, Says Abia Will Always Be Their Home
In a heartwarming show of appreciation and continuity in security sector partnership, Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has commended five outgone security commanders for their exemplary service in ensuring safety and stability across the State during their tenures.
The send-forth ceremony, held on Friday, June 20, 2025, at the Banquet Hall of Government House, Umuahia, was organised by the State Government in honour of the former service commanders. Those celebrated include Brigadier General O.O. Diya of the Nigerian Army, Navy Captain O.A. Eyitayo of the Nigerian Navy, Dr. Shelema Muhammed Soso of the Department of State Services (DSS), and Chidi Nnadi of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), among others.
Governor Otti, who personally led the tributes, described their contributions as instrumental in reclaiming Abia from the grips of insecurity, including kidnapping, armed robbery, and banditry. “That we were able to cage insecurity, kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry—just name it—is because of you. These are fine gentlemen who are properly trained,” he stated.
He explained that the administration had institutionalized the tradition of honouring security personnel who serve a minimum of one year in the State. According to him, this gesture is not only to reward diligence but also to inspire current officers to give their best.
“This is a tradition we have established in this State—that if our service commanders who have served for not less than a year are leaving, we celebrate them. We give them small parting gifts to remember their time here. It is also a way of encouraging those who are serving to put in their best, knowing fully well that one day, it will be their turn,” Governor Otti noted.
The Governor assured the honorees that Abia would always be a home for them, even in their retirement or redeployment. “You can always come anytime to visit us,” he said.
Responding on behalf of the celebrated commanders, Brig. Gen. Diya, Navy Capt. Eyitayo, Dr. Soso, and Mr. Nnadi expressed profound gratitude to Governor Otti and the people of Abia for the honour. They applauded the Governor’s proactive leadership and the synergy between the government and security agencies, which they say has contributed immensely to a safer Abia.
They noted the marked improvement in security, social harmony, and infrastructural development since Governor Otti assumed office and pledged to remain ambassadors of Abia wherever they are posted next.
The colourful event attracted top government officials, serving commanders, and dignitaries from across the State.
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