Gov. Otti Approves Land for New NSCDC Command in Abia, Commends Federal Government’s Support

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has expressed appreciation to the Federal Government for approving the construction of a permanent command of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in the state. He also gave in-principle approval for the allocation of land for the project.

Governor Otti made this known on Wednesday, July 16, during a courtesy visit by the NSCDC Commandant General, Prof. Ahmed Abubakar Audi, who is in the state for an operational tour. The governor commended the Minister’s decision and confirmed that suitable land would be made available soon for the construction.

“I want to thank you for bringing the good news of the Minister’s approval. We already have a parcel of land in mind, and I’ll direct the Commissioner for Lands and Housing to meet with me before the end of the week so we can allocate a suitable site,” Governor Otti said.

He highlighted that Abia enjoys relative peace and security compared to some other states but acknowledged the need for continued vigilance. He praised the dedication of all security agencies, including the Army, Police, Navy, DSS, and NSCDC, for their swift responses to incidents. “They don’t sleep so our people can sleep,” he remarked.

Governor Otti emphasized that security remains the foundation of his administration’s development agenda. “Without security, our infrastructure investments—roads, schools, hospitals—won’t matter if people can’t go out safely,” he added. He also shared news of a successful joint security operation that dismantled a criminal hideout in Isiukwuato earlier that day.

He commended the NSCDC Commandant General for his leadership and expressed gratitude for his attention to security developments in Abia. He described the federal appointment of Prof. Audi as well-deserved, citing his competence and accomplishments.

In his remarks, Prof. Audi stated that Abia is among five states selected to benefit from the Federal Government’s approved construction of new NSCDC commands. He praised Governor Otti’s commitment to security and requested that the land for the command be situated near the city for accessibility.

He also acknowledged the governor’s ongoing support to the Corps, including vehicle donations, inclusion in the State’s security task force “Operation Crush,” and general logistics assistance. “You’re security-conscious and deeply connected to your people. It’s rare to find a governor who takes calls and engages directly with citizens,” Prof. Audi said.

Governor Otti was joined during the visit by top security aides including his Special Adviser on Security, Navy Commander MacDonald Uba (rtd); SSA on Homeland Security and Fire Emergencies, Mr. Chukwunenye Alajemba; and his Chief Security Officer, Sir Ken Nwosu.

The NSCDC delegation included State Commandant Akinsola Aderemi A., Deputy Commandant Emmanuel Ogoya, Deputy Commandant Ibrahim Yahaya (Rivers Command), Assistant Commandant Okorie Chinomso E., and CSC Uzoaru Prince, among other senior officers.