Security is Everything: Governor Otti Declares as He Hosts New GOC, 82 Division Nigerian Army

Governor Alex Otti has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to security, stating that without a safe environment, all development plans will fail. He assured the new GOC of full government support in strengthening security efforts in Abia State. Read full details here!

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has reiterated that security remains the topmost priority of his administration, emphasizing that no meaningful development can thrive without a safe and secure environment. The governor made this declaration on Friday, February 28, 2025, when he received the new General Officer Commanding (GOC) 82 Division, Nigerian Army, Enugu, Major General O.T. Olatoye, during his official and familiarization visit to security formations under his command.

Governor Otti highlighted the critical role of security in achieving the state’s development agenda, noting that while his administration is focused on key sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, education, environmental sanitation, and the digital economy, security remains the foundation upon which all other priorities rest.

“For us in Abia, we believe that security is everything. Yes, we are prioritizing infrastructure, healthcare, education, and the digital economy, but without security, every other plan will fail. We want our people to sleep peacefully, even if we have to stay awake to ensure that happens.”

Governor Otti assured Maj. Gen. Olatoye of his full support in strengthening security operations in Abia and across the South-East region. He noted that taking over from a successful predecessor presents both opportunities and challenges but expressed confidence in Olatoye’s ability to build on the solid foundation laid by his predecessor, Major General H.T. Dada.

“I am happy to receive you today because I have heard good reports about you. Your predecessor did a great job, and I believe you are here to improve on that. You can count on my support anytime—I’m just a phone call away,” Otti assured.

He further commended Major General Dada for his contributions to maintaining peace and security in Abia, stating that his leadership played a crucial role in stabilizing the security landscape.

In his remarks, Major General O.T. Olatoye conveyed the appreciation of the Chief of Army Staff (CoAS), Lieutenant General Olufemi Oluyede, to Governor Otti for his unwavering support of security agencies, particularly the military, in the state.

“Your Excellency, I bring the gratitude of the Chief of Army Staff for your continuous support to the military and other security agencies. Your commitment has greatly enhanced our ability to secure Abia State,” he stated.

He pledged to sustain and enhance the security gains already achieved in the state, stressing that his tenure would focus on upscaling security operations to foster economic growth and social stability.

“My priority is to strengthen the existing peace and security so that we can create an environment conducive for economic and social development. I assure you of my best efforts in achieving this,” Maj. Gen. Olatoye affirmed.

Also present at the meeting was Brigadier General Hassan Mohammed Bello, Brigade Commander of 14 Brigade, Ohafia, who extended his gratitude to Governor Otti for his unwavering support. He appreciated the governor for accommodating their visit despite the short notice, highlighting that such a commitment to security collaboration is commendable.

Governor Otti was joined in receiving the GOC and his entourage by his Special Adviser on Security, Navy Commander MacDonald Uba (Rtd.), further demonstrating the state’s unified approach to security matters.

With security as a key pillar of Governor Otti’s administration, the coming months will reveal how this renewed collaboration with the military translates into greater peace, stability, and economic growth for Abia State.