Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, OFR, has lauded the Inspector General of Police (IGP) for introducing the policy of posting newly commissioned police officers to serve in their states of origin, describing it as a commendable and forward-thinking initiative.
Governor Otti gave the commendation on Thursday, January 8, while receiving 31 newly commissioned Abia-born officers of the 7th Regular Course of the Nigerian Police Academy. The officers were posted to serve in Abia State in line with the IGP’s new policy.
He described the initiative as “fantastic,” noting that indigenous officers possess a deep understanding of their local environment, culture and languages, which gives them a strategic advantage in policing their communities.
According to the Governor, posting officers to distant states often comes with challenges such as cultural and language barriers, which could hinder effective policing. He therefore expressed appreciation to the IGP and his team for the policy, assuring them of Abia State’s full support.
Governor Otti reiterated his administration’s strong commitment to security, stating that his government remains fully informed about security developments across the state. He urged the officers to remain focused, uphold integrity, and avoid unwholesome practices, while assuring them that the concerns they raised would be addressed through the office of the Special Adviser on Security.
Speaking at the event, an Abia stakeholder and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dr Monday Ubani, also praised the policy, describing it as a major boost to effective policing. He noted that officers who are familiar with the local terrain and criminal networks are better positioned to prevent crime.
Dr Ubani, who described Governor Otti as one of the best-performing governors in Nigeria, charged the officers to conduct themselves with honour, integrity and honesty, and warned against transactional or corrupt policing.
Earlier, speaking on behalf of his colleagues, ASP Irozuru Somtochukwu Justice said the officers were on a courtesy visit to the Governor following their commissioning and posting to Abia State. He noted that serving in their home state would strengthen their bond with the people and enhance their commitment to protecting lives and property.
He explained that the IGP’s initiative is aimed at deepening community policing by fostering trust, cooperation and effective collaboration between officers and their communities. ASP Irozuru appealed for support in the area of welfare, stressing that adequate welfare is critical to effective policing and personal development.
He also commended Governor Otti for his people-centred leadership and policies, noting that his achievements continue to inspire young Nigerians to believe in service, integrity and sacrifice.
The event was attended by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, PhD; the Special Adviser on Security, Navy Commander MacDonald Uba (Rtd); and other government officials. The newly commissioned officers presented a framed photo portrait to the Governor as a token of appreciation.
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