Governor Alex Otti of Abia state has attributed the successes recorded over the past two years in the security sector of the state to a “holistic” approach.
Governor Otti stated this during the official launch of the Security Trust Fund at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia.
He explained that investment in social infrastructure, youth reorientation among others aided the fight.
Governor Otti called on residents and philanthropic organisations to take greater responsibility for security by contributing generously to the newly launched Security Trust Fund.
He explained that the Trust Fund is established under the Abia State Security Trust Fund Law 2024.
It will mobilize and manage resources to strengthen security infrastructure across the state.
Governor Otti noted that security is a shared responsibility as safeguarding communities does not rest with only the government.
The Governor explained that the funds raised would assist in the procurement of modern equipment, recruitment, training and operational needs of security agencies.
They will also help to increase investment in intelligence and surveillance technology to rid the state of crimes.
Security personnel commended
The Governor who commended security personnel in the State for their sacrifices, announced a donation of ₦500 million from a Non-Governmental Organization.
He was confident that the Trust Fund would help Abia to remain one of safest states in the country.
Governor Otti urged donors to promptly redeem their pledge, assuring stakeholders that all contributions would be judiciously managed to sustain peace and enable residents to sleep with both eyes.
Also speaking, the Minister of State for Labour and Productivity, Mrs Nkiruka Onyejeocha, reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to security.
She stressed that peace and stability in States will positively impact national security.
In his address, the Chairman of the Abia State Security Trust Fund (ASSTF) Board of Trustees, Mr Stanley Obiamarije, described the event as “a pivotal moment” in Abia’s journey towards a safer and more prosperous state.
Represented by his Vice, Mr Johnson Chukwu, Obiamarije commended Governor Alex Otti’s “unwavering political will, visionary leadership, and actionable commitment.
He explained that the fund would operate as a public-private partnership.
It will mobilize resources for equipping security agencies, providing logistics, communication tools, surveillance equipment and other support.
