GOV OTTI LAUDS NIGERIAN ARMY ON CIVIL-MILITARY RELATIONS, PEACE STABILITY IN ABIA STATE 

The Executive Governor of Abia State, Dr. Alex Chioma Otti, OFR, has commended officers and soldiers of the 14 Brigade, Nigerian Army, for their professionalism, discipline, and dedication to duty, noting that their sustained operations contributed significantly to the relative peace and security currently enjoyed in Abia State.

Represented by his deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu, FNSE, on Saturday, 17 January 2026 at the 14 Brigade Combined West African Social Activities (WASA) 2025, held at the Goodluck Ebele Jonathan Barracks, Ohafia, he described WASA as a long-standing tradition of the Nigerian Army that promotes unity, boosts morale, and strengthens civil-military relations.

He maintained that, “The professionalism and discipline exhibited by officers and men of the 14 Brigade have continued to play a vital role in sustaining peace and stability across Abia State, and the government deeply appreciates your sacrifices in service to our nation.”

“The West African Social Activities is more than a social gathering. It is a time-honoured tradition of the Nigerian Army that fosters unity, boosts morale, and strengthens the bond between the Armed Forces and the society they protect,” the Deputy Governor said.

Engr. Emetu reaffirmed the Abia State Government’s commitment to continued collaboration with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies, stressing that peace and security remain critical to sustainable development. He urged the troops to remain disciplined, loyal, and professional as they carry out their constitutional responsibilities in the year 2026.

“Peace and security are indispensable to development, and the Abia State Government under Governor Alex Otti will continue to partner with the Nigerian Army and other security agencies to ensure a safe and prosperous environment for our people”, he stated.

Earlier in his address, the Brigade Commander, Brigadier General HM Bello, traced the origin of WASA to the colonial army era, explaining that the tradition has been sustained by the Nigerian Army to foster unity, confidence, and esprit de corps among personnel. He highlighted the operational achievements of the Brigade in 2025, stating that sustained patrols and joint operations with sister security agencies led to a noticeable reduction in criminal activities within the Brigade’s area of responsibility.

Brigadier General Bello noted that “Through sustained patrols and effective collaboration with sister security agencies, the Brigade recorded significant operational successes in 2025, resulting in a marked reduction in criminal activities within our area of responsibility.”

He expressed appreciation to the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu, and the leadership of the 82 Division for their support and guidance, while reaffirming the Brigade’s commitment to the professional discharge of its duties in line with constitutional provisions.

The event featured inspection of dishes, cultural troupe performances, tug-of-war competition, presentation of prizes and awards, beating of the retreat, and the lighting of a bonfire, providing a relaxed atmosphere for officers, soldiers, and their families to celebrate a successful operational year.

Present at the occasion were the Honourable Commissioner for Science and Technology, Mr. David Kalu; the Mayor of Ohafia Local Government Area, Hon. Chief Eleanya Ojuu Kalu; the Mayor of Bende Local Government Area and his Deputy, Hon. Uwabunkeonye Bassey and Hon. Mrs. Ngozi Anya (Ngoo Bekee) respectively; former Mayor of Ohafia LGA, Hon. Chief David Ogba Onuoha (Bourdex), General Manager, Abia State Road Traffic and Safety Management Agency (ARTSMA), other government appointees, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and other dignitaries.

Sir Cyril Chukwudi Eke Mba

Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor of Abia State

18th January, 2026.