Governor Alex Otti has successfully mobilised over ₦3.4 billion from political and business allies at the launch of the new Abia State Security Trust Fund in Umuahia, pledging to root out insecurity through a public-private partnership.
During a luncheon at the International Conference Centre on Thursday, donors answered Governor Otti’s call—underpinned by the Abia State Security Trust Fund Law, 2024—and pledged sizeable sums. Notable contributions included ₦500m from Chief Adedeji Adeleke, ₦200m from Chief Arthur Eze, and ₦100m from Chief Innocent Chukwuma of Innoson Motors.
Otti described the sum as a critical injection into his holistic security strategy. The law backing the fund, he said, “empowers the state to set up a specialised framework for mobilising, managing, and deploying resources in support of our security infrastructure.”
He urged citizens to take personal responsibility, stating, “To counter the enormous cost of the security crisis, all of us are invited to always take more than a passing interest in security issues in our neighbourhoods, places of business, and in the larger community.”
Recalling when he assumed office, Otti highlighted the insecurity he inherited and outlined how interventions such as Operation Crush have helped restore calm. He promised the state would not relent: “I would not rest on my oars in my efforts to ensure security of lives and property throughout the state.”
Key stakeholders from across political divides attended the event in solidarity. Among them was Minister of State for Labour Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, who emphasised that “security should never be politicised” and praised Tinubu’s support for Otti’s efforts to make Abia safe. Former Minister Uche Ogah also pledged to contribute monthly to the fund for one year.
Chief Stanley Obiamaraije, chairman of the Trust Fund’s board of trustees, explained that the Fund is a public-private initiative designed to equip security agencies with vital logistics, surveillance infrastructure, communication tools, and operational support. He commended Otti’s “unwavering political will, visionary leadership, and actionable commitment.”
With this bold fundraising move, Governor Otti hopes to boost security significantly, reinforce trust in public institutions, and make Abia a robust model for others on preserving safety and community involvement.
