Abia’s Security and Economic Transformation Earns High Praise from Leadership Advocate Dr. Collins Obi
Prominent Nigerian leadership advocate and public figure, Sir Dr. Ugochukwu Collins Obi, FCAI, PMA, has commended the sweeping security and economic reforms in Abia State under the administration of Governor Alex Otti, describing them as unprecedented in the state’s history.
In an exclusive interview with our correspondent in Umuahia, Dr. Obi, who serves as the President of all Presidents of the Aba Provincial Joint Council of Knights, a coalition representing nine Anglican dioceses hailed the zero-tolerance stance on corruption, the proactive security measures, and the progressive policies on hospitality and Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) development initiated by the Otti administration.
“Governor Otti’s leadership has rekindled hope in Abia,” Dr. Obi remarked. “The synergy between the state government, the police leadership, and the people is setting a new benchmark for governance and citizen welfare.”
In his capacity as Chairman of the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), Zone 9, Dr. Obi highlighted the significant strides in security, pointing to improved intelligence coordination, community policing strategies, and rapid response units that have restored public confidence in law enforcement across the state. He attributed these improvements to the seamless collaboration between Governor Otti, and AIG Kanayo Uzuegbu, who oversees Zone 9 covering Abia, Imo, and Ebonyi States.
“The state is witnessing a new era of peace and safety,” he said. “The professionalism and operational prowess of AIG Uzuegbu have been remarkable, and the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) is proud to partner with such a seasoned officer.”
Commending the administration’s efforts in the hospitality sector, Dr. Obi cited new investments in tourism infrastructure, a friendlier business environment for hotels and restaurants, and public-private partnerships aimed at attracting both local and foreign visitors.
He also acknowledged Governor Otti’s commitment to SME development, highlighting access to micro-credit facilities, capacity-building initiatives, and an SME support fund designed to empower young entrepreneurs and stimulate job creation.
“This is the most business-friendly environment Abia has seen in decades,” Dr. Obi added. “There is an entrepreneurial revival, and it’s clear the government has prioritized inclusive economic growth.”
Reflecting on the scale of transformation, Dr. Obi evoked the legacy of late Chief Sam Onunaka Mbakwe, the revered former Governor of old Imo State.
“It is as though the spirit of Mbakwe has returned in the person of Governor Alex Otti. Abians are once again proud of their government.”
Abia State, long challenged by infrastructural decay and insecurity, is emerging as a model of progressive governance in southeastern Nigeria. This recognition by influential civil society leaders like Dr. Obi not only underscores the governor’s success but also inspires confidence in replicable governance models across other Nigerian states. The synergy between government and law enforcement illustrates the power of collaborative leadership in solving long-standing public issues.
Dr. Obi extended his commendation to AIG Kanayo Uzuegbu for his leadership and administrative oversight, noting the zone’s strategic handling of security in the region.
He also praised the state Commissioner of Police CP Danladi Isa, describing his working relationship with the AIG as “cordial and effective,” while acknowledging other state commissioners within Zone 9 for maintaining synergy with the police hierarchy.
