Abia State Governor, Dr Alex Otti, OFR, on Wednesday formally declared open a two-day meeting of the Federal and States Security Administrators (FASA) in Umuahia, calling for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to enhance security across the country.
The summit, organised by the Federal Government in collaboration with the Abia State Government, is holding at the International Conference Centre, Ogurube Layout, Umuahia. It brings together security administrators from across the federation to examine prevailing security challenges, share practical experiences and develop actionable strategies to strengthen Nigeria’s collective security response.
Declaring the meeting open, Governor Otti said the presence of participants in Abia State underscored a shared national commitment to safeguarding lives, property and democratic institutions.
“I welcome you all to Abia State for this important Federal and State Security Administrators’ conference. Your presence here reflects our shared responsibility to safeguard our nation, strengthen our institutions and ensure that governance at all levels delivers safety, stability and progress to our people,” the governor said.
Governor Otti stressed the need for synergy among security agencies, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), political actors and other relevant institutions to guarantee peaceful, free and fair elections, particularly as the country approaches the 2027 general elections.
He warned against the activities of hoodlums and political thugs who often attempt to disrupt campaigns, intimidate voters and undermine democratic outcomes, noting that no meaningful development can be achieved without a secure environment.
“No nation or state can record sustainable development without security. Infrastructure development, industrial growth, investment attraction and job creation all depend on a secure and predictable environment,” he said.
The governor added that credible elections remain central to democratic progress, urging all stakeholders to spare no effort in ensuring peaceful and transparent electoral processes ahead of 2027.
Governor Otti further explained that his administration’s reform agenda in Abia State is focused on rebuilding public confidence in governance, restoring critical infrastructure, revitalising the economy and strengthening institutions, noting that these goals cannot be realised without a stable security architecture.
According to him, security is not merely an isolated function of force but the foundation upon which prosperity and development are built.
In his remarks, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, represented by the Chairman of FASA and Permanent Secretary, Special Services Office of the Presidency, Mr Muhammad Sanusi Danjuma, said the summit is aimed at strengthening preparations ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He identified the growing threat of misinformation and its implications for national security, as well as the need for sustained collaboration in tackling terrorism, banditry and other security challenges.
He commended Governor Otti for hosting the meeting and praised his administration’s achievements in Abia State.
Also speaking, the National Security Adviser, Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, represented by his Special Adviser on Governance and Sub-national Matters, Mr A. B. Okuro, reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to working closely with state governments and relevant institutions to reinforce the nation’s security architecture.
He noted that effective security management requires coordination, trust and structured engagement across all tiers of government, stressing that national security remains a shared responsibility.
Earlier, in their goodwill messages, participants including the Commissioner for Information and Internal Security, Borno State, Prof Usman Tar; the Head of Service, Akwa Ibom State, Ms Elsie Peters; and the Permanent Secretary, Special Services Office, Nasarawa State, Mr Muhammad Iyasu Idde, highlighted the importance of periodic FASA meetings in reviewing security issues and making informed recommendations for improved national security.
The event was attended by top government officials, including the Acting Secretary to the Abia State Government, Dr Emmanuel Meribeole; the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media and Publicity, Mr Ferdinand Ekeoma; the Permanent Secretary, Office of the SSG, Dr Godwin Okezuo, and other senior officials.
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