Prominent leadership advocate and public figure, Sir Dr. Ugochukwu Collins Obi, FCAI, PMA, has lauded the remarkable security and economic reforms unfolding in Abia State under Governor Alex Otti, specifically commending the role of Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) Kanayo Uzuegbu in Zone 9 for what he described as a transformative security agenda.
Speaking with The Community News Hub 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—praised the administration’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption, proactive security measures, and its progressive hospitality and SME development policies.
“Governor Otti’s leadership has rekindled hope in Abia,” Dr. Obi stated. “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 emphasized the significant progress in public safety, citing enhanced intelligence coordination, strengthened community policing efforts, and responsive police units that have boosted public trust in security agencies. He attributed these successes to the close 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.”
Dr. Obi also recognized the Otti administration’s contributions to the hospitality sector, highlighting fresh investments in tourism infrastructure, a more business-friendly climate for hotels and restaurants, and thriving public-private partnerships aimed at attracting both domestic and international tourists.
Turning to economic development, he praised the governor’s prioritization of SMEs, noting increased access to micro-credit facilities, robust capacity-building programs, and a dedicated SME support fund designed to empower youth entrepreneurs and foster job creation.
“This is the most business-friendly environment Abia has seen in decades,” Dr. Obi declared. “There is an entrepreneurial revival, and it’s clear the government has prioritized inclusive economic growth.”
Drawing a historical comparison, Dr. Obi likened the present transformation to the legacy of the late Chief Sam Onunaka Mbakwe, the 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, once plagued by infrastructural neglect and insecurity, is fast emerging as a model of responsive governance in southeastern Nigeria. Dr. Obi’s recognition of these achievements not only underscores the progress made but also highlights the value of collaborative leadership between civil society, security agencies, and government.
He further commended AIG Kanayo Uzuegbu for his strategic oversight and commitment to safety in the region. Additionally, he praised the Commissioner of Police in Abia, CP Danladi Isa, calling his relationship with the AIG “cordial and effective,” and extended similar commendations to other state commissioners within Zone 9 for their synergy with the police hierarchy.
