Governor Alex Otti has urged a new strategy to boost police recruitment in Abia State, ensuring the state meets its allocated quota. During a meeting with a delegation from the Police Service Commission (PSC), he emphasized the importance of targeted communication, including radio broadcasts, to raise awareness among potential recruits.

Governor Otti pointed out that many eligible candidates remain unaware of recruitment opportunities due to communication barriers. He suggested using multiple media platforms, particularly radio, to reach a wider audience. He cited the success of similar efforts in military recruitment and expressed readiness to collaborate with the PSC in future police recruitment campaigns.

Addressing the challenge of drug abuse, the governor linked substance abuse to rising crime rates. He lamented the increasing availability of drugs, which were once scarce and expensive but are now easily accessible. He highlighted the misuse of medications like codeine, originally intended for pain relief, which has become a major concern. Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to combating drug abuse in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Homeland Security, and other security agencies. He stressed that tackling drug abuse is essential in the broader fight against crime.

The governor assured the PSC delegation that his administration would continue working with them to achieve their mutual goal of improving police recruitment in Abia.

Earlier, the leader of the PSC delegation, Mrs. Uche Wokocha, praised Governor Otti for his support of Abia children in the Police Academy. She noted that he was the first governor from the state to do so. She also acknowledged his efforts in providing facilities for documentation and called for continued government support in mobilizing Abians to join the police force.

Mrs. Wokocha expressed optimism that the establishment of a police college in neighboring Akwa Ibom State, recently approved by the Federal Government, would encourage more Abians to join the force. The PSC delegation appreciated the governor’s commitment to security and urged his administration to maintain its efforts in mobilization and recruitment.