Abia Government Raises ₦3.4B to Fight Insecurity
Governor of Abia State Dr Alex Otti collecting cheques from donors during the launch of state’s security fund in Umuahia on Thursday
The Abia State Government, on Thursday, announced it had raised over ₦3.4 billion to combat rising insecurity across the state.
This milestone was achieved during the official launch of the Abia State Security Trust Fund at the International Conference Centre, Umuahia.
Speaking at the event, Governor Dr. Alex Otti emphasized the urgent need for proactive engagement in security matters, urging Abians and residents not to remain passive but to take decisive action to address threats in their communities.
“Insecurity breeds economic and social crises, impoverishes our people, and turns families into refugees in their homeland,” “To effectively counter the high cost of insecurity, we must all do more than observe , we must actively participate in safeguarding our neighborhoods, workplaces, and communities.” Governor Otti stated.
Governor Otti commended those who made generous donations to the Trust Fund and acknowledged the commendable efforts of the Abia State Security Trust Fund in coordinating and mobilizing resources for the fight against insecurity.
In a press statement issued by Ukoha Njoku Ukoha, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Otti described the launch as a critical component of his administration’s holistic security agenda, emphasizing the importance of prevention in the war against criminality.
“This event aligns with the Abia State Security Trust Fund Law, 2024, which empowers the government to establish a specialized framework for mobilizing, managing, and deploying resources to strengthen the state’s security infrastructure.” he stated.
The Governor also assured that every kobo raised would be judiciously utilized, citing his administration’s commitment to transparency and prudent resource management.
He recalled his inaugural pledge to reclaim every part of Abia State that had fallen into the hands of criminals and expressed satisfaction that operations like “Operation Crush” have restored relative peace in the region.
“We will not rest on our oars. The safety of lives and property remains a non-negotiable priority,” he affirmed.
In solidarity, several dignitaries echoed the Governor’s call for collective responsibility.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Alex Ikwuecheghe ,representing Aba North and South Federal Constituency, Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mrs. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, and former Minister of State for Mines and Steel, Dr. Uche Ogah, emphasized that security is a shared responsibility.
They described the Governor’s Security Trust Fund initiative as “visionary” and called on all citizens and stakeholders to support the project for a safer and more prosperous Abia.
These prominent Abians lauded the unprecedented transformation across the State under Governor Otti.
The event also featured remarks by Mr. Obiamaraije Stanley, Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Abia State Security Trust Fund, who was represented by Vice Chairman Chief Johnson Chukwu.
He explained that the Trust Fund is a public-private partnership model aimed at enhancing the operational capacity of security agencies through sustainable financing.
“Our goal is clear and it is to provide critical logistics, communication tools, surveillance systems, and other necessary resources so that security agencies can respond to threats swiftly and effectively,” Stanley said.
He expressed appreciation to Governor Otti for initiating and backing the Fund with strong political will and visionary leadership.
He noted that Abia is witnessing a new era of responsive governance, infrastructure renewal, and sustainable development.
Also speaking, Bar. (Mrs.) Nkolika Cleopatra Ubani, Secretary of the Trust Fund and Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Legal Matters, lauded the Governor’s unwavering dedication to public safety.
She encouraged stakeholders to contribute meaningfully to sustaining peace through preventive crime-fighting approaches.
Earlier, Ide John Udeagbala, Chairman of the occasion, reiterated that security is everyone’s business and urged citizens to not only support the government’s efforts but also to report criminal activities promptly to relevant authorities.
Numerous prominent individuals and organizations made financial commitments in support of the Fund. These include,Chief Arthur Eze, represented by Prince Eze Offor,A representative of Deji Adeleke,CEOs of major banks and financial institutions,Contractors, traditional rulers, and business leaders
Among the distinguished guests were Chief Innocent Chukwuma ,CEO, of Innoson Motors, Arc. Dr. Kaycee Orji CEO of Roxettes Motors, Prof. Barth Nnaji Chairman, Geometric Power Ltd, Chief Festus Oshaba Onuh CEO, Ferotex Construction, Chief Leslie Ebueme Ezikpe CEO, Goldrusch Ltd, Chief Ken Ahia (SAN) and Chief Bar. Jackson Agbai Abba CEO of Dovers Hotels Ltd), and many others.
The event drew dignitaries from all walks of life, signaling broad-based support for the administration’s security initiatives and a shared commitment to making Abia a safe, secure, and thriving state.
The highest individual donation of ₦500 million came from Adedeji Adeleke, father of music icon Davido. He was followed by Anambra-born oil magnate, Chief Arthur Eze, who donated ₦200 million.
Industrialist and founder of Innoson Motors, Chief Innocent Chukwuma, contributed ₦100 million, while other donors—including contractors and commercial banks—also made significant financial commitments.
Former Chief of Army Staff and Chairman of the State Security Advisory Council, Lt. Gen. Azubuike Ihejirika (rtd), also made a generous donation in millions. The lawmaker representing Aba North and South Federal Constituency, Hon. Mascot Ikwecheghi, donated ₦30 million.
