The Abia State Government has officially presented operational vehicles to two federal security agencies in the state to enhance their performance. Specifically, two Hilux pickup trucks were handed over to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and one to the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), Abia State Command. The vehicle handover ceremony took place at the Government House in Umuahia and was carried out on behalf of Governor Alex Otti by the Special Adviser on Security Matters, Navy Commander MacDonald Uba (Rtd.). Representing Uba at the event was the General Manager and Chief Executive Officer of the Abia State Homeland Security Agency, Colonel Chidi Kalu Ukoha (Rtd.).

During the event, Uba emphasized the importance the state government places on security, describing it as a cornerstone for any form of development. He noted that Governor Otti is committed to protecting lives and property and is making concerted efforts to strengthen the state’s security infrastructure. According to him, the vehicles are intended to boost the operational efficiency of these agencies, enabling them to better combat crime and address related challenges such as drug abuse.

Uba further reiterated that socio-economic progress is only achievable in a secure environment and that the current administration remains committed to supporting federal agencies in their efforts to maintain peace and order in Abia State.

In response, Mrs. Justina Owe, Controller of the NIS in Abia, expressed heartfelt appreciation to the governor for the donation, calling it a significant boost to their operational capacity. Mr. Joseph Owoputi, NDLEA Commander in Abia, also thanked Governor Otti for fulfilling his recent promise made during Owoputi’s courtesy visit. He pledged that the vehicles would be used to enhance their efforts to curb drug abuse and minimize crime within the state.