Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, OFR, has commended members of the Nigerian Armed Forces, both serving personnel and fallen heroes, for their sacrifices toward sustaining peace and security in Abia State and across the country.
Governor Otti gave the commendation on Sunday at the Mater Dei Catholic Cathedral, Umuahia, during the 2026 Armed Forces Remembrance Day Inter-Denominational Thanksgiving Service. The event was organised by the Abia State Government in partnership with the Nigerian Legion, Abia State Chapter, to honour military personnel who paid the ultimate price in service to the nation.
The Governor expressed appreciation to security commanders operating in the state for their dedication and described their service as a labour of love that should never be taken for granted. He also thanked residents of Abia State for their cooperation and support, noting that community participation remains critical to maintaining security.
According to him, the progress recorded in Abia’s security architecture is the result of synergy between the armed forces, other security agencies, the state government, and the people themselves, whom he described as the first line of security in their communities.
Governor Otti reaffirmed that the protection of lives and property remains a top priority of his administration. He disclosed that the state government holds regular security council meetings involving service commanders and traditional rulers to review developments and plan proactive strategies.
He assured Abians that his administration remains focused and people-centered, stressing that no distractions would derail its commitment to good governance. The Governor added that 2026 holds great promise for the state, particularly with the implementation of an ambitious budget aimed at sustaining reforms and accelerating development.
The Governor also extended condolences to families of deceased military personnel and encouraged them to remain strong, assuring them that the sacrifices of their loved ones would never be forgotten.
Earlier in his homily, the Catholic Bishop of Umuahia Diocese, Most Rev. Dr. Michael Kalu Ukpong, urged members of the armed forces to emulate the biblical character Cornelius, an army officer known for humility, prayer, and reverence for God. He reminded security personnel that they exist to serve the people and should therefore relate with civilians respectfully.
Bishop Ukpong emphasized the importance of prayer in the life of every soldier, whether deployed to the battlefield or not. He prayed for God’s continued protection over the armed forces and for eternal rest for fallen heroes.
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The thanksgiving service featured a procession led by Governor Otti and special prayers for the state government, security agencies, and members of the armed forces, both living and departed.
Dignitaries present at the service included Deputy Governor Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, federal and state lawmakers, members of the State Executive Council, traditional rulers, local government mayors, service commanders, and top government officials.