Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has commended members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, both serving officers and fallen heroes, for their sacrifices in securing peace and stability in Abia State and the country at large.
Governor Otti made this known on Sunday at the Mater Dei Catholic Cathedral, Umuahia, during the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Inter-Denominational Thanksgiving Service organised by the Abia State Government in collaboration with the Nigerian Legion, Abia State Chapter.
The governor also expressed appreciation to security commanders in the state for their dedication and to Abians for their unwavering support in maintaining security.
> “I want to thank the service commanders for their labour of love. We do not take your sacrifices for granted. I also thank our people for the massive support they give to this government.
It is the armed forces working with other security agencies, the government and our people—who are the chief security officers of their communities—that have produced the results we are seeing today,” Governor Otti said.
Reaffirming that safety and security remain a top priority of his administration, the governor disclosed that regular security council meetings are held every month with service commanders and traditional rulers to review developments and map out strategies.
> “Security is our priority. That is why every month we sit with service commanders and the Chairman of the Council of Traditional Rulers to review the situation and plan ahead.
We will continue to work for our people. Nothing will distract us. This is a government of the people, not of a few,” he added.
Governor Otti also assured that 2026 would be a remarkable year for the state, noting that significant changes were already taking place and would be accelerated through the implementation of the ambitious 2026 budget.
He extended his condolences to families of fallen military personnel and encouraged them to remain strong.
Earlier in his homily, the Catholic Bishop of Umuahia Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Michael Kalu Ukpong, urged members of the armed forces to emulate Cornelius, the God-fearing army officer in the Bible, by embracing humility, prayer and service to humanity.
The bishop reminded soldiers that they exist to protect the people and should not intimidate them. He prayed for God’s protection over the security forces and for the eternal rest of fallen heroes.
The church service featured a thanksgiving procession led by Governor Otti, as well as special prayers for the governor, his administration, and the armed forces.
Dignitaries at the event included Deputy Governor Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, Hon. Ginger Onwusibe, members of the State House of Assembly, Acting Secretary to the State Government Dr. Emmanuel Mereibeole, Chief of Staff Pastor Caleb Ajagba, commissioners, Head of Service Mr. Benson Ojiekere, local government mayors, service commanders and other top government officials.
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