Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has praised the Inspector General of Police (IGP) for introducing a policy that allows newly commissioned police officers to begin their service in their states of origin, describing it as a strategic and people-focused approach to effective policing.
Governor Otti gave the commendation on Thursday, January 8, while receiving 31 Abia-born officers of the 7th Regular Course of the Nigerian Police Academy at the Government House, Umuahia. The officers were recently commissioned and deployed to Abia State in line with the IGP’s new posting framework.
According to the Governor, deploying officers to their home states offers significant operational advantages, as indigenous officers possess deep knowledge of local terrain, culture, and language, which enhances intelligence gathering and rapid response to security threats. He noted that such familiarity eliminates cultural barriers and shortens the adjustment period often experienced when officers are posted to unfamiliar regions.
Governor Otti assured the officers that security remains a top priority of his administration, stressing that his government maintains strong situational awareness across the state. He urged the newly commissioned officers to remain disciplined, focused, and committed to integrity, warning against unprofessional and unethical conduct. The Governor also acknowledged the welfare concerns raised by the officers and pledged continued support through the Office of the Special Adviser on Security.
Also speaking at the event, a senior Abia stakeholder and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Dr. Monday Ubani, applauded the policy, noting that it would significantly strengthen community policing. He explained that officers serving in their home states are better positioned to identify criminal networks, understand local dynamics, and proactively prevent crime. Dr. Ubani challenged the officers to uphold honesty, professionalism, and justice, cautioning against transactional or corrupt policing practices.
Earlier, speaking on behalf of his colleagues, Assistant Superintendent of Police (ASP) Irozuru Somtochukwu Justice said the officers paid a courtesy visit to express gratitude for the warm reception and support from the state government. He described their posting to Abia as a morale booster that reinforces their commitment to safeguarding their communities, even at personal risk.
ASP Irozuru explained that the IGP’s initiative is designed to deepen trust between the police and the public by embedding officers within familiar communities, thereby promoting collaboration and more effective law enforcement. He appealed for support in basic welfare and professional development needs, noting that improved welfare directly impacts policing outcomes.
He also commended Governor Otti’s administration for its people-oriented governance, stating that the Governor’s leadership has made Abia safer and continues to inspire young Nigerians to value service, integrity, and sacrifice.
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The event was attended by key government officials, including the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, Ph.D., and the Special Adviser on Security, Navy Commander MacDonald Uba (Rtd.). The newly commissioned officers presented a framed photo portrait to Governor Otti as a token of appreciation.
Ctz. Ukoha Njoku Ukoha
Chief Press Secretary to the Executive Governor of Abia State
January 8, 2026