Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has reiterated that the security and safety of residents remain the top priority of his administration. He made the declaration during the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Inter-denominational Thanksgiving Service at Mater Dei Catholic Cathedral, Umuahia.

The event, organised by the Abia State Government in collaboration with the Nigerian Legion, Abia State chapter, was held to honour both the living and fallen members of the Nigerian Armed Forces.

Governor Otti commended service commanders for their dedication and thanked Abians for supporting government efforts in maintaining peace and security.

“I want to thank the service commanders for their labour of love. We cannot take it for granted. We also appreciate our people for their massive support in securing our communities,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of collaboration between the armed forces, other security agencies, the government, and citizens. “It is this collective effort that has produced the results we are seeing today,” Otti added.

The Governor also highlighted the government’s proactive security approach, noting that monthly security council meetings are held with service commanders and the Chairman of the Council of Traditional Rulers to review developments and plan strategies.

“For us, safety and security is our priority. We will continue to work for our people, and nothing can distract us. I assure you, this government is for the people and not a government of a few,” Otti stated.

Looking ahead, he described 2026 as a year of transformative changes in the state, driven by the ambitious budget his administration plans to implement. The Governor extended condolences to families of fallen service members, urging them to remain strong.

In his homily, the Catholic Bishop of Umuahia Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Michael Kalu Ukpong, encouraged members of the armed forces to emulate the God-fearing spirit of Cornelius, a biblical army officer. Bishop Ukpong stressed that soldiers must serve with humility and should not intimidate the people they are charged to protect. He prayed for divine protection for active service members and eternal rest for the departed heroes.

“The Armed Forces Remembrance Day is about honouring the living while acknowledging the sacrifices of those who have fallen. Soldiers should embrace a life of prayer, even when not on the war front,” Bishop Ukpong said.

The event brought together government officials, service commanders, and citizens, underscoring the collaborative efforts to maintain peace and security in Abia State.