Akume, Otti, Ribadu Seek Improved National Security

Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume; Abia State governor,  Alex Otti, and the national security adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, have stressed the need to enhance national security.

They spoke through representatives at the opening ceremony of the Federal and States Security Administrators (FASA) meeting in Umuahia, the Abia State capital yesterday.

In his address, Akume underlined the need  for a collaborative effort in fighting terrorism and banditry, among other challenges ahead of the 2027 general elections and beyond.

He said the summit focused on preparations for the elections and expressed concern over the menace of false information and its negative impact on national security.

Represented by the chairman of FASA and permanent secretary, special services office of the presidency, Muhammad Danjuma, he thanked the state for hosting the meeting.

‎‎Governor Otti called for synergy and collaboration among security agencies, INEC, political actors and the relevant institutions to ensure credible elections.

‎‎He said efforts should also be made to curb activities of hoodlums and political thugs who often seek to disrupt campaigns, intimidate voters and undermine political and democratic results.

‎‎Otti, who declared the meeting open, noted that the presence of the participants underscored the shared commitment for all stakeholders in the country.

‎‎”I welcome you all to the state for this important Federal and State Security Administrators conference. Your presence here underscores the shared commitment we all have.

‎‎”The responsibility to safeguard our nation and strengthen our institutions. And ensure that governance at every level delivers safety, stability and progress to our people,” the governor added.

‎‎Similarly, Ribadu, said the federal government remained committed to working collaboratively with state governments and all relevant institutions to strengthen the collective security architecture of the country.

‎‎Represented by his special adviser on Governance and Sub-national Matters, A.B. Okuro, he added that security demands coordination, trust, and structured engagement across all levels of government these days.